Key takeaways:

• Miami Heat guard Terry Rozier is under federal investigation for alleged involvement in an illegal sports gambling scheme.
• The investigation focuses on unusual betting patterns during a March 2023 game against the New Orleans Pelicans.
• Rozier has not been charged with any crime and maintains his focus on basketball amid the scrutiny.
• The NBA previously looked into the situation and found no rules were broken, but is cooperating with the U.S. Attorney’s Office.
• The probe is part of a larger investigation that has already led to a lifetime ban for former NBA player Jontay Porter.

MIAMI (AP) — Veteran NBA player Terry Rozier is under investigation by federal prosecutors for potentially altering his performance in a game as part of an illegal sports betting scheme. The scrutiny follows an incident that occurred on March 23, 2023, while Rozier was still with the Charlotte Hornets during a matchup against the New Orleans Pelicans. This game has raised alarms due to unusual betting activity that attracted the attention of both the NBA and federal investigators. According to the USA Today, Rozier played only 9 minutes and 34 seconds, scoring just five points, but his early exit due to a foot injury led to furious reactions from bettors who had placed wagers on his performance that night.

The NBA confirmed the investigations, acknowledging prior inquiries revealed no violations of league rules. However, amidst rising calls for increased scrutiny in sports betting, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of New York has been examining the case amid a broader probe into illegal betting activities involving professional athletes.

Rozier’s attorney, Jim Trusty, stated, “We are aware of the NBA’s 2023 investigation which determined there was absolutely no wrongdoing by Mr. Rozier and we are confident that the ongoing government investigation will arrive at the same conclusion” according to the Daily Beast. Despite the investigation, Rozier has reiterated his commitment to focusing on his playing career, stating that he can 'block out anything' when on the court.

This investigation also recalls the recent case of former Toronto Raptors player, Jontay Porter, who was banned for life from the NBA after being implicated in a separate gambling-related scandal. Porter faced criminal charges for allegedly manipulating his performance in games, ultimately facilitating a significant illegal gambling operation. As the landscape of professional sports and gambling continues to evolve, both the NBA and federal authorities are under pressure to maintain integrity within their leagues while addressing the emerging complexities associated with sports betting.

Currently, Terry Rozier, now with the Miami Heat since a January 2024 trade, remains under the microscope but has yet to face any formal charges, allowing him to continue his career amid these allegations. He is in the third year of a four-year, $96.3 million contract.

For more information on this developing story, visit AP News for detailed coverage.