NBA ref's gambling habits detailed

NEW YORK, June 4 (UPI) -- NBA referee Timothy Donaghy was flexible in how he made his betting "picks" on games he helped officiate, a letter left unsealed by federal prosecutors shows.

The letter from the U.S. attorney's office details how Donaghy, 41, bet on about 40 games a year from 2003 through 2007, sharing tips and winnings with friends and professional gamblers, the New York Post reported Wednesday.

The NBA referee made up to $30,000 a year on his NBA bets using inside information and advantages. For example, before a Dec. 26, 2006, game between the Memphis Grizzlies and Washington Wizards Donaghy made a last-minute change to his own and associates' betting when he learned the Grizzlies were "all banged up."

The gamble paid off in the contest Donaghy helped officiate when the Wizards won 116-101.

The former referee already has pleaded guilty to two federal charges.