Terry Rozier’s NBA career has brought him more than $160 million but now Federal prosecutors say a $100,000 bribe could bring his world crumbling down.
The 10-year NBA veteran is facing two new charges after prosecutors accused him Tof agreeing to take money in connection with a betting scheme involving a 2023 Charlotte Hornets game. The new indictment adds charges of bribery in sporting contests and honest services wire fraud conspiracy to the wire fraud charges Rozier has faced since October.
Prosecutors allege Rozier gave co-defendant Deniro Laster advance notice that he planned to remove himself early from a March 23, 2023, game against the New Orleans Pelicans because of a leg injury and that information was allegedly shared with bettors, who placed $258,700 in wagers that Rozier would not reach his normal totals in points, assists, and rebounds.
Rozier left the game after nine minutes, recording five points, four rebounds, and two assists, but because his four rebounds topped his 3.3 per game average, some wagers did not hit.
Prosecutors allege Rozier then agreed to lower the bribe from $100,000 to $70,000. His attorney, Jim Trusty, said the accusations are coming from people trying to help themselves.
“There are some desperate men in this case with terrible criminal records and tons of exposure, and they know what to say to please these prosecutors,” Trusty said. Trusty also stated that the latest indictment “confirms that our motion to dismiss was a good one.”
The sweeping indictment names 34 defendants and has also included Chauncey Billups and Damon Jones. On Thursday, defendant Marves Fairley pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit wire fraud and conspiracy to commit money laundering.
“I agreed to pay a player to change their game performance to give me an advantage,” Fairley told the judge.
Prosecutors identified that player as Rozier.
