The Miami Heat guard Terry Rozier has been arrested as part of an investigation into sports betting conducted by the FBI. This arrest took place early Thursday morning at a hotel in Orlando, Florida, following the Heat’s game against the Orlando Magic the previous night.
Terry Rozier’s Arrest Details
Sources have reported Rozier’s arrest, which is linked to a broader FBI investigation into gambling activities within the NBA. The Eastern District of New York, along with FBI Director Kash Patel, is set to hold a news conference at 10 a.m. ET to discuss the ongoing investigation and the arrests associated with it.
Background of the Investigation
This investigation follows suspicious betting patterns related to Rozier’s performance during a game between the Charlotte Hornets and the New Orleans Pelicans on March 23, 2023. Sportsbooks noted an unexpected spike in bets placed on Rozier’s statistics, particularly regarding his points, rebounds, and assists.
Connections to Previous Scandals
- Jontay Porter, a former Toronto Raptors center, was previously implicated in a similar gambling scheme.
- Porter was banned from the NBA in spring 2024 and admitted to manipulating his performance in two specific games during the 2023-24 season.
- He has pleaded guilty to conspiracy charges and is awaiting sentencing in December.
- Four other individuals have also pleaded guilty in connection with this gambling investigation.
NBA’s Response to Gambling Issues
NBA Commissioner Adam Silver has acknowledged the league’s collaboration with sportsbooks to prevent manipulation of betting. On “The Pat McAfee Show,” Silver emphasized the need for careful monitoring of prop bets, especially those involving players without a significant stake in the outcome.
As the investigation unfolds, it brings to light the growing concerns regarding the intersection of sports and gambling, highlighting the need for stringent regulatory frameworks within the league.
