An investigation by federal prosecutors is currently underway regarding unusual betting patterns surrounding the play of former Charlotte Hornets guard Terry Rozier in a game that took place nearly two years ago. This probe is part of the same investigation that led to the lifetime ban of Toronto Raptors player Jontay Porter, as confirmed by the NBA on Thursday.
The NBA clarified that Rozier, who now plays for the Miami Heat, has not been charged with any crime or accused of any wrongdoing in relation to this matter. The league had previously looked into the situation when it was initially brought to their attention and found no violation of NBA rules.
The game in question involving Rozier occurred on March 23, 2023, during a matchup between the Hornets and the New Orleans Pelicans. Rozier played the first quarter of the game, contributing five points, four rebounds, and two assists before exiting due to a foot issue. He did not return to the game and did not play for the remainder of the season, as the Hornets were not in playoff contention at that time.
Following the game, some bettors expressed frustration on social media platforms, suggesting that there may have been irregularities surrounding prop bets involving Rozier's performance that night. Sportsbooks had set Rozier's totals for the game at around 21.5 points, six assists, and four rebounds, but his actual performance fell short of these numbers.
Similar to the case of Jontay Porter, who was banned for life after an investigation revealed he had disclosed confidential information to bettors and placed wagers on games, the NBA is now cooperating with the U.S. Attorney's Office for the Eastern District of New York in the Rozier investigation.
While the specifics of the bets that triggered the probe into the Hornets-Pelicans game remain undisclosed, the NBA continues to monitor and address any potential issues related to gambling and player integrity within the league.
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