Corruption in sports betting

Former Kings official banned for betting on games

Jack Mai, the former assistant director of scouting for the Kings, was banned by the league for "betting small amounts of money" on Kings and NBA games, the Kings announced today.

Mai was fired by the Kings in early 2009 for reasons that remain unclear, although it had long been speculated that his close ties with Chinese basketball officials were becoming an increasing concern to the league and the Kings organization.

The Kings said in a statement: "Today we were informed by the NBA that it has concluded its investigation with respect to the activities of one of our former employees, Jack Mai. The investigation revealed that Mr. Mai participated in improper wagering activities while a member of this organization. Mr. Mai�s employment with the Kings was terminated in January 2009. Mr. Mai has now been disqualified from further association with the NBA or any of its teams. We take this matter very seriously, and we fully cooperated with the NBA�s investigation."

Mai, who in reality had very little influence in Kings personnel matters, was hired by Geoff Petrie eight years ago on the recommendation of Kings special assistant Pete Carril. He was rarely seen at Arco Arena.

Yahoo!Sports reported that business partners of Mai tipped off the league about his betting activities. Teams can no longer hire Mai nor use his services as a consultant.