Feds Investigating Rozier’s 2023 Game Performance Amid Betting Probe
NBA star Terry Rozier is under federal investigation for allegedly manipulating his game performance as part of an illegal sports betting scheme, according to ESPN.
The probe is part of the same investigation that led to the lifetime ban of former Toronto Raptors player Jontay Porter, who pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit wire fraud in connection with betting-related offenses.
While Rozier has not been charged with any crime or formally accused of wrongdoing, his March 23, 2023, game for the Charlotte Hornets against the New Orleans Pelicans has raised serious red flags in the betting world.
Suspicious Betting Activity Surrounding Rozier’s Game
During the March 23, 2023, game, Rozier played just 9 minutes before citing a foot injury—an injury that would sideline him for the rest of the season, despite Charlotte having eight games remaining.
His final stat line from that game:
- 5 points
- 4 rebounds
- 2 assists
This performance fell far below his usual prop bet averages of 21.5 points, 6 assists, and 4 rebounds.
The betting activity surrounding Rozier caught the attention of U.S. Integrity, a monitoring agency that tracks irregular betting patterns in sports.
According to the WSJ, U.S. Integrity issued just three alerts involving NBA games in two seasons—two involving Jontay Porter and one involving Rozier.
This has led to concerns that Rozier’s unexpected absence from the game could have been manipulated to benefit bettors who wagered on his underperformance.
Rozier’s Attorney Denies Wrongdoing, NBA Stands by Initial Investigation
Rozier’s attorney, Jim Trusty, has dismissed any allegations, stating his client is innocent and expects the government investigation to clear him.
“We are aware of the NBA’s 2023 investigation which determined there was absolutely no wrongdoing by Mr. Rozier, and we are confident that the ongoing government investigation will arrive at the exact same conclusion.”
Meanwhile, the NBA also confirmed that it investigated Rozier’s 2023 game but found no evidence of a rule violation.
“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 stated. “The league conducted an investigation and did not find a violation of NBA rules. We are now aware of an investigation by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of New York related to this matter and have been cooperating with that investigation.”
Currently, Rozier plays for the Miami Heat, and his status in the league remains unchanged as federal prosecutors continue their probe.
What’s Next for Rozier?
With sports betting under increased scrutiny, the NBA is facing pressure to ensure transparency and integrity in its games. While Rozier has not been accused of any crime, the fact that his game was flagged alongside Jontay Porter’s scandal has raised eyebrows.
As federal authorities dig deeper, the big question remains: Will Rozier be cleared, or could this probe reveal another major sports betting scandal?
Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story.
