Terry Rozier was reportedly cleared by the NBA after an investigation into gambling allegations, though several veteran security guards remain part of the ongoing federal inquiry. The controversy began following a game on March 23, 2023, when Rozier was involved in 30 bets placed within a 46-minute span, all tied to his individual points, rebounds, and assists.
According to investigation records, a total of $13,759 was bet on this game between the Charlotte Hornets and New Orleans Pelicans, specifically targeting Rozier’s performance statistics. The unusual betting pattern raised alarms, prompting America’s integrity watchdog to alert six sportsbooks and the NBA, leading one major sportsbook to suspend betting on Rozier’s props within an hour.
During the game, Rozier played only 10 minutes, leaving due to a foot injury, and finished with five points, four rebounds, and two assists—statistics falling below the betting lines, resulting in all 30 bets winning. The NBA reviewed the situation and found no violation of league rules, subsequently clearing Rozier. Rozier’s lawyer confirmed to ESPN that he is no longer involved in the federal investigation, though a spokesperson from the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of New York declined to confirm his status.
The investigation also implicated others, including the Toronto Raptors forward John Tayporter, who faced a lifelong NBA ban and felony charges in April 2024. Additionally, free agent guard Malik Beasley is being examined by both federal authorities and the NBA for a prop bet linked to his time with the Milwaukee Bucks in January 2024, though he has yet to face charges.
A report by Pablo Torre and Yahoo Sports contributor Tom Haberstroh revealed a gambling connection involving the alias "Moose," predicting Beasley’s investigation following Rozier’s news five months prior. Rozier did not participate in the Hornets’ final eight games of the 2023 season and was later traded to the Miami Heat, where he remains under contract through the 2025-26 season, earning $26.6 million. In two seasons with Miami, Rozier has averaged 12.5 points, 3.9 rebounds, and 3.3 assists, shooting 32% from three-point range.
Fan Take: This news underscores the critical need for vigilant monitoring of gambling within professional basketball to protect the integrity of the sport. For fans, it signals that while players like Rozier have been cleared, the league and authorities are serious about rooting out any activity that could compromise fair play, which ultimately preserves the game’s trust and excitement.
