NBA Betting Scandal Expands with Rozier Facing New Charges

New York federal prosecutors have intensified their prosecution of former NBA guard Terry Rozier, alleging he received a six-figure payment to intentionally reduce his playing time in a game during his tenure with the Charlotte Hornets. 

Indictment Claims Rozier Aided Bettors With Game Exit Plan

According to a newly amended indictment, investigators believe Rozier conspired with a group of bettors to leave a March 2023 game against the New Orleans Pelicans early. The alleged scheme was to influence bets related to his personal performance, in particular bets that he would not reach his usual statistics, reported The New York Times. 

Court documents reveal Rozier had discussed his intentions with an associate, who then relayed the information to gamblers. Those people reportedly bet heavily on the assumption that the player would not see much playing time. Rozier exited the game in the first quarter with modest numbers and a little more than nine minutes of play. 

The first payment discussed was reportedly around $100,000, but that was later reduced after some of the bets fell through, with his total on rebounds higher than expected, authorities said. The scheme relied on insider information that the general public and sportsbooks did not have, giving bettors an unfair advantage, prosecutors say. 

Rozier Case Widens as Gambling Scheme Draws More Defendants

However, the case has grown into a wider investigation involving multiple accused and allegations of rigged results and insider betting. One of the accused gamblers has already admitted in court to paying a professional player to influence his performance. Prosecutors have identified Rozier as the athlete in question. 

Rozier has denied wrongdoing. His lawyers say the case rests on shaky testimony from cooperating witnesses who are seeking leniency. His lawyer has also attacked the legal basis for the charges, arguing that recent Supreme Court precedent limits the reach of federal fraud statutes in cases involving intangible information. 

Rozier, who already faced wire fraud allegations, now is charged with sports bribery and conspiracy to commit fraud. The NBA and Hornets have also been named by prosecutors as parties allegedly harmed by the scheme. 

It has prompted broader questions about the integrity of professional sports in an age of legalized gambling. It has long been assumed that athletes paid very well would have little incentive to risk their careers for relatively small sums, but the case suggests that there are still such risks. Rozier, who made over $160 million during his NBA career, has not played since being arrested last year. He has filed a motion to dismiss the charges, but a judge has yet to rule on it. Legal proceedings are continuing, and it is unclear what the future of the case will be.