Sebastian Telfair Reflects on Prison Time Shared with Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs
NEWARK, N.J. — Former NBA player Sebastian Telfair recently spoke candidly about his time in federal prison, where he served a sentence for a probation violation tied to his 2023 healthcare fraud conviction. During his incarceration at Fort Dix, the same federal facility where music mogul Sean “Diddy” Combs is serving a 50-month sentence, Telfair offered rare insight into their shared experience behind bars.
Telfair, a first-round pick in the 2004 NBA Draft, was among 18 former players indicted in 2021 for allegedly defrauding the NBA’s health care and welfare benefits plan. The scheme involved submitting fraudulent medical claims, a case that has drawn significant attention to corruption within professional sports. The former Phoenix Suns guard’s legal troubles also include a 2019 conviction for second-degree criminal possession of a weapon, stemming from a 2017 arrest.
In an interview with TMZ, Telfair described Combs as maintaining a positive outlook despite the challenges of incarceration. “Diddy’s holding it down. He’s doing what he gotta do. And where he’s at, they’re going to help him,” Telfair said, reflecting on the mogul’s resilience.
Combs, a Grammy Award-winning artist and entrepreneur, was convicted earlier this year on two counts related to transporting individuals for prostitution but was acquitted on more serious charges. His sentencing in October 2025 led to his transfer from the Metropolitan Detention Center in Brooklyn to Fort Dix, where Telfair was also serving time.
Telfair expressed empathy for Combs, acknowledging the stark contrast between the mogul’s lavish lifestyle and the realities of prison life. “I couldn’t imagine how Combs felt,” Telfair remarked. Yet he also suggested that this period of adjustment might ultimately benefit Combs, offering a chance for reflection and growth.
Now 40, Telfair is turning his focus toward a new chapter in basketball. He recently revealed that he has signed a contract to compete in Ice Cube’s 3-on-3 basketball league, the Big3, where he aims to contend for the MVP title. The league has become a popular platform for former professional players to showcase their skills in a fast-paced, competitive environment.
Telfair’s story highlights the complex intersection of fame, legal troubles, and redemption. His reflections on time served alongside one of entertainment’s most high-profile figures provide a unique perspective on the human side of incarceration.
For more information on federal prison systems and sentencing, visit the Federal Bureau of Prisons. Details on the NBA healthcare fraud case and related indictments can be found through the Department of Justice. Insight into Combs’ legal proceedings is available via the United States Courts website. For updates on the Big3 basketball league, see Big3.com.
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