He hasn't publicized his role until this week, but veteran sports book operator Art Manteris has served as a consultant to the NBA on a variety of issues regarding Las Vegas sports betting since 1998.
The link between Manteris and the league came to light after NBA Commissioner David Stern spoke to reporters about the federal investigation into allegations that referee Tim Donaghy bet on and fixed games in the past two seasons.
Manteris, who has 29 years of experience in the state's race and sports book industry, thinks an enhanced level of cooperation between Nevada and the major sports leagues, including the NCAA, could help avert potential scandals and ensure the games are kept as clean as possible.