MIAMI — The NBA is recommending that its players adopt extra security measures at their residences following a string of notable burglaries involving members from various teams, including Milwaukee Bucks forward Bobby Portis, Minnesota Timberwolves guard Mike Conley Jr., and Kansas City Chiefs players Patrick Mahomes and Travis Kelce.

In a memo circulated to team officials and later obtained, the NBA shared insights from the FBI about how some of these intrusions are linked to “transnational South American Theft Groups.” These groups are described as highly organized and sophisticated, utilizing advanced methods and technologies like pre-surveillance tactics, drone usage, and signal jamming devices.

Conley fell victim to a burglary on September 15 while he attended a Minnesota Vikings game, during which jewelry was stolen, as reported by local news sources. Portis, on the other hand, experienced a break-in on November 2 and is offering a substantial $40,000 reward for any information leading to the arrest of those responsible. Additionally, the homes of fellow NFL players Mahomes and Kelce were also targeted mere days apart last month, prompting the league to issue a similar security alert to their teams.

According to the NBA memo, which was informed by FBI findings, these crime rings primarily target cash and items that are easy to resell on the black market, such as jewelry, luxury watches, and designer handbags.

As part of their safety advisories, the NBA has also been working closely with team security personnel and encouraged players to invest in modern alarm systems that include surveillance cameras. They advised players to set these systems any time they leave home and to securely store valuables in locked safes. The memo also recommends that players remove any online listings showing the interiors of their homes, hire professional guard services during long absences, and even consider having dogs for protection.

“It’s certainly frustrating and disappointing, though I can’t go into too many details as the investigation is still in progress,” Mahomes remarked following the burglaries. He mentioned the unwelcome nature of such incidents, emphasizing that it’s an experience no one should have to endure.

One burglary involving the Chiefs occurred on October 7, coinciding with a game day, and Portis had a game scheduled on the same day as his home was robbed. “They took most of my prized possessions,” Portis lamented about the incident.