A federal grand jury is investigating a 2023 NBA game between the Charlotte Hornets and the New Orleans Pelicans, centering on allegations that Hornets guard Terry Rozier shared inside information for betting purposes. The probe focuses on Rozier’s performance in the game, where he played only ten minutes before exiting with a reported foot injury, scoring just five points. During the 2022-2023 season, Rozier averaged 21 points per game.
The indictment alleges Rozier informed a friend he would feign injury and leave the game early, impacting prop bets on his scoring performance. Bettors who wagered that Rozier would score over his average of 21 points lost, while those allegedly tipped off by Rozier profited. Deniro Laster, Rozier’s friend, is accused of sharing the information, leading to $250,000 in prop bets. The indictment details that Laster allegedly made tens of thousands of dollars from the scheme and later went to Rozier’s home to count the earnings.