NBA Stars Terry Rozier, Chauncey Billups Arrested in Betting Scandal

UPDATE: In a shocking turn of events, NBA guard Terry Rozier and Portland Trail Blazers coach Chauncey Billups were arrested by the FBI this morning as part of a sweeping federal investigation into illegal sports betting. The arrests occurred just hours before a scheduled press conference in New York at 10 a.m. ET where federal officials, including FBI Director Kash Patel, are expected to provide further details on this urgent case.

Rozier was taken into custody at a hotel in Orlando, Florida, where the Miami Heat had been playing against the Orlando Magic. Notably, Rozier did not participate in the game due to a coach’s decision. Meanwhile, Billups was arrested in Portland, Oregon, as the Blazers are currently in between home games.

Sources reveal that Rozier is connected to a sports betting ring involving both current and former players, with allegations that some individuals faked injuries as part of the scheme. He is one of six people charged in this case, which has sent shockwaves through the NBA community. Additionally, Billups is among 31 individuals facing charges for participating in high-stakes poker games allegedly run by organized crime figures.

Earlier this year, unusual betting patterns related to Rozier’s performance were flagged by sportsbooks prior to a game on March 23, 2023, where a professional bettor placed $13,759 on the under for Rozier’s points, rebounds, and assists. This suspicious activity prompted several sportsbooks to halt prop betting on his statistics. Rozier played only 10 minutes in that game before exiting due to a foot injury.

Rozier’s attorney, Jim Trusty, stated that Rozier has cooperated with the FBI and NBA officials during the investigation and has consistently maintained his innocence. This case also ties back to former NBA player Jontay Porter, who was banned from the league in 2024 after pleading guilty to conspiracy charges related to a sports betting scandal.

This scandal raises serious questions about the integrity of the NBA and the potential for game manipulation, prompting NBA Commissioner Adam Silver to call for stricter regulations on sports betting. Silver emphasized the need for additional controls to prevent any form of manipulation in the betting markets, particularly involving players in vulnerable positions.

As this developing story unfolds, the implications for the NBA and its players are significant. Fans and stakeholders are left wondering how this will impact the league’s reputation and regulations surrounding sports betting moving forward.

Stay tuned for live updates as authorities reveal more details about this urgent investigation.