Miami Heat guard Terry Rozier has launched a significant legal challenge, filing a motion to have serious federal gambling charges against him dismissed. The 31-year-old NBA player faces two felony counts connected to a major betting controversy that has shaken professional basketball.
Defence Claims Prosecutorial Overreach
Lawyers for the veteran athlete contend that federal prosecutors are "overreaching" by levelling charges of conspiracy to commit wire fraud and money laundering. The motion, submitted on Tuesday, December 23, asserts the government is trying to enforce its own view on sports wagering integrity rather than pursuing a legitimate federal crime.
Defence attorney Jim Trusty stated the allegations merely constitute a breach of private terms of use set by state-licensed betting firms, not federal law. "The government has billed this case as involving 'insider betting' and 'rigging' professional basketball games," Trusty wrote in court filings. "But the indictment alleges something less headline-worthy: that some bettors broke certain sportsbooks' terms of use."
The Allegations and Rozier's Plea
Rozier was arraigned on December 9 in a Brooklyn federal court, where he pleaded not guilty to both charges. Federal authorities allege that in March 2023, while playing for the Charlotte Hornets, Rozier tipped off gamblers about a fabricated injury.
The indictment claims Rozier informed co-defendant Deniro Laster he intended to remove himself from a game against the New Orleans Pelicans in the first quarter. He reportedly played under 10 minutes before exiting, ensuring he finished 'under' his prop bet totals for points and assists. Prosecutors allege Laster then sold this information, leading to over $200,000 in winning bets.
It is further claimed that Laster drove to Rozier's Charlotte home in the early hours of April 1, 2023, to count the cash winnings. However, Rozier's legal team stresses there is no evidence the player placed a bet himself or used a proxy. "Nor does it allege that he knew that Laster intended to sell this information to others," the motion states.
Wider Scandal and Consequences
This case forms part of broader federal investigations known as 'Operation Royal Flush' and 'Operation Nothing But Net'. The scandal has seen more than 30 people indicted, with authorities citing connections to organised crime and rigged poker games. Other notable figures linked to the probe include Portland Trail Blazers coach Chauncey Billups and former player Damon Jones.
As the legal battle unfolds, the Miami Heat have placed Rozier on indefinite leave. The outcome of this motion could set a significant precedent for how similar cases involving professional athletes and betting regulations are handled in the future.
