Federal prosecutors are investigating unusual betting patterns involving Terry Rozier’s performance in a 2023 game. This probe is part of the same investigation that led to Jontay Porter’s lifetime ban. The Wall Street Journal first reported the news, and the NBA later confirmed it.
Terry Rozier Under Investigation For Unusual Betting Activity
Rozier, who played for the Charlotte Hornets at the time, has not been charged with any crime. His attorney, Jim Trusty, dismissed concerns. “We are aware of the NBA’s 2023 investigation, which determined there was absolutely no wrongdoing by Mr. Rozier,” Trusty said. “We are confident that the ongoing government investigation will arrive at the exact same conclusion.”
NBA Investigated Rozier in 2023
The NBA had already reviewed Rozier’s involvement in the March 23, 2023, game against the New Orleans Pelicans. He played 9 minutes and 36 seconds before leaving with a foot injury. He did not return for the rest of the season.
“In March 2023, the NBA was alerted to unusual betting activity related to Terry Rozier’s performance in a game between Charlotte and New Orleans,” NBA spokesman Mike Bass said. “The league conducted an investigation and did not find a violation of NBA rules.”
Rozier scored five points, grabbed four rebounds, and recorded two assists in the first quarter. Bettors expected much higher numbers based on his usual performance. Some sportsbooks removed Rozier’s prop bets before the game started. His name did not appear on the Hornets’ injury report before tipoff. This tipped off some bettors.
Jontay Porter’s Scandal Highlights NBA’s Concerns
Porter’s case demonstrated how sports betting scandals threaten the NBA’s integrity. The league banned Porter for life in April 2024 after discovering he disclosed confidential health information to bettors. He also bet on games, including his team losing.
The NBA found that a bettor placed an $80,000 parlay on Porter’s poor performance. The bet, which could have won $1.1 million, raised red flags. Porter also placed 13 bets on NBA games, winning nearly $22,000.
The league views these offenses seriously. The single easiest way to threaten the NBA’s multibillion-dollar business is for people to doubt that they’re watching a game left to chance.
NBA’s Struggle With Gambling Partnerships
The NBA partners with sportsbooks but remains vigilant about gambling risks. The league benefits financially from betting partnerships but also faces increased scrutiny.
The league acknowledges that legal sportsbooks helped uncover Porter’s wrongdoing. “While legal sports betting creates transparency that helps identify suspicious or abnormal activity…” the NBA said.
However, more betting leads to more risks. The NBA’s embrace of gambling creates more opportunities for players and insiders to manipulate outcomes. A bigger pool of bettors means a bigger pool of potential crooks.
Rozier’s Future in the NBA
Rozier is in his 10th NBA season and plays for the Miami Heat. He averages 12.1 points, 4.1 rebounds, and 2.9 assists this season.
While the NBA found no wrongdoing, the federal investigation could change his situation. If authorities find any evidence of betting-related misconduct, Rozier could face serious consequences.
The NBA cannot afford another major betting scandal. The league must protect its credibility while balancing its lucrative partnerships with gambling companies. The Terry Rozier investigation could be another test of the NBA’s ability to manage the betting challenge.
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