NBA Guard Terry Rozier Arrested in Broad Illegal Gambling Inquiry
Miami Heat guard Terry Rozier was taken into custody early Thursday morning in Orlando, Florida, as federal authorities widened a sweeping investigation into illegal sports-betting schemes. The arrest comes alongside charges brought against others, including coach Chauncey Billups of the Portland Trail Blazers.
According to court documents, Rozier is accused of providing non-public information to bettors about his own playing time and performance. The allegations centre on at least seven NBA games between March 2023 and March 2024. In one instance, an unusually large number of bets were placed on Rozier’s “unders” (i.e., fewer points, rebounds or assists than the line).
In the March 23 2023 game, while playing for the Charlotte Hornets, Rozier exited after fewer than ten minutes, citing a foot injury. Investigators contend the exit aligned with the betting activity.
The federal investigation spans multiple states and has resulted in over 30 arrests tied to illegal sports betting and rigged poker operations involving organised-crime groups.
The NBA has issued a statement placing Rozier and Billups on “immediate leave” as the legal process unfolds. The league emphasised its commitment to maintaining the integrity of competition.
Rozier’s lawyer, Jim Trusty, has affirmed his client’s cooperation and maintained that Rozier is “not a gambler” and looks forward to clearing his name.
What Happens Next
Rozier is scheduled to make an initial court appearance in the coming weeks.
The NBA is reviewing its betting-related rules and the involvement of players in prop-bet markets, following this investigation and an earlier scandal.
Teams and the league face heightened scrutiny regarding betting integrity, insider information, and whether existing safeguards are adequate.