Orlando, October 24, 2025
News Summary
In a shocking turn of events, former Charlotte Hornets guard Terry Rozier and Portland Trail Blazers head coach Chauncey Billups were arrested as part of an FBI investigation into illegal sports betting and poker schemes. The inquiry revealed that Rozier allegedly used insider information to place bets against NBA teams. Rozier has been placed on leave by the NBA, while both individuals face serious charges related to conspiracy to commit wire fraud and money laundering. The investigation has linked multiple NBA teams and involved numerous arrests across several states.
Orlando – Former Charlotte Hornets guard Terry Rozier and Portland Trail Blazers head coach Chauncey Billups were arrested on Thursday as part of an extensive FBI investigation into illegal sports betting and poker schemes. The arrests were detailed in a press conference held by the FBI and U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of New York, Joseph Nocella, who announced “numerous arrests in illegal sports betting and poker game schemes.”
Rozier was taken into custody at his team hotel in Orlando and has since been placed on leave by the NBA, which is currently reviewing the federal indictments against him. The NBA stressed that maintaining the integrity of the game is its top priority and that it will cooperate fully with authorities during the investigation.
The FBI’s investigation uncovered that Rozier, among others, allegedly engaged in illegal betting using insider information concerning NBA athletes and their respective teams between December 2022 and March 2024. This non-public information included specifics about players sitting out games or leaving early due to injuries.
The inquiry involved multiple NBA teams including the Charlotte Hornets, Los Angeles Lakers, Toronto Raptors, and Portland Trail Blazers, although the Miami Heat were not implicated. Both Rozier and Billups are facing serious charges related to conspiracy to commit wire fraud and conspiracy to commit money laundering.
Rozier’s legal representation noted that he had previously reached out to prosecutors for clarification regarding his situation and expressed frustration with the public nature of his arrest, indicating it seemed designed to embarrass him. Rozier has been under scrutiny before for unusual betting activity related to a March 2023 game against the New Orleans Pelicans when he exited early due to a foot injury. During that game, Rozier played only nine minutes, prompting bettors to exploit inside information concerning his departure to place profitable wagers.
The NBA had previously investigated Rozier for potential gambling violations, but no infractions were found at that time. The current investigation is part of a broader probe that allegedly links organized crime families to scheming poker games.
Meanwhile, Billups faces accusations of being involved in a scheme that utilized advanced cheating technology to rig poker games, acting as a “face card” to attract participants to these fixed games. The investigation has revealed that significant amounts of money, totaling in the tens of millions, have been lost due to such fraudulent activities.
In connection with the investigations, the FBI arrested a total of 34 individuals across 11 states. The cheating operations reportedly required cooperation with various crime families including the Gambino, Genovese, and Bonanno families. Notably, sophisticated cheating techniques were employed such as altered card-shuffling machines and hidden cameras, causing substantial financial harm to victims.
Rozier’s bond conditions entail restrictions on gambling participation and travel. Both Rozier and Billups made formal court appearances shortly after their arrests. The NBA has indicated that serious penalties may follow based on the outcomes of these investigations. Billups’s attorney has denied the allegations, maintaining his client’s integrity and commitment to the sport. The NBA has reiterated its dedication to taking these allegations seriously and ensuring the sport’s integrity.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who were arrested in the FBI sports betting investigation?
Former Charlotte Hornets guard Terry Rozier and Portland Trail Blazers head coach Chauncey Billups were among those arrested.
What were the charges against Rozier and Billups?
Rozier and Billups have been charged with conspiracy to commit wire fraud and conspiracy to commit money laundering.
Which teams were involved in the FBI investigation?
The investigation involved the Charlotte Hornets, Los Angeles Lakers, Toronto Raptors, and Portland Trail Blazers, but not the Miami Heat.
What restrictions were placed on Rozier following his arrest?
Rozier’s bond requirements include not engaging in gambling and restrictions on travel.
What is the NBA’s stance on the investigation?
The NBA has emphasized the integrity of the game as a top priority and is cooperating with authorities.
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