Full Breakdown
Terry Rozier Seeks Dismissal of NBA Gambling Charges
8/1/2026, 5:31:48 AM
Core Event – Text Message Central to New Motion
Former NBA guard Terry Rozier, who faces four federal counts—including conspiracy to commit wire fraud, conspiracy to commit money laundering, bribery in sporting contests, and honest-services wire fraud—filed a motion on July 31 asking a Brooklyn federal judge to dismiss two of the charges. The filing hinges on a text message sent by co-defendant Deniro Laster on March 29, 2023, six days after Rozier allegedly left a March 23, 2023 game early with a “phantom” injury. The message reads, “Dont tell chum bout the bet,” which Rozier’s lawyers argue shows he was unaware of any betting scheme.
Background & Context
Rozier was arrested in October 2025 as part of a sweeping indictment that alleges a multi-person gambling operation involving organized-crime links. Prosecutors claim Rozier agreed to a $100,000 payment to exit the March 23, 2023 Charlotte Hornets-New Orleans Pelicans game early, allowing gamblers to place “under” bets on his statistical output. In that game Rozier logged fewer than ten minutes, five points and two assists. The indictment also alleges that Rozier supplied insider information used to wager on the Los Angeles Lakers, Portland Trail Blazers, Charlotte Hornets, Orlando Magic and Toronto Raptors over a year-long period, implicating more than 30 individuals. If convicted, Rozier faces up to 20 years in prison.
Timeline
- October 2025 – Rozier arrested on four federal charges.
- March 23, 2023 – Hornets vs. Pelicans game; Rozier exits early amid alleged scheme.
- March 29, 2023 – Deniro Laster texts “Dont tell chum bout the bet.”
- May 2026 – Prosecutors add two counts (bribery and honest-services wire fraud).
- July 31, 2026 – Rozier’s attorneys file motion to dismiss two charges and to move venue to Southern District of Florida.
- Trial date currently set for later this year.
Data & Statistics
Official Statements & Responses
- They also assert that trying the case in Brooklyn would cause “unfairness and hardship” because none of Rozier’s alleged conduct occurred in New York.
- The U.S. The office also opposed the venue-change request.
- A spokesperson for the U.S. Attorney’s Office declined comment on the merits of the motion.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
- Dispute over the text’s relevance: Rozier’s team says the message demonstrates his lack of knowledge, while prosecutors maintain the text is unrelated to any betting activity.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Dont tell chum bout the bet,” — Deniro Laster
What’s Next
Rozier’s attorneys have asked that the case be transferred to the Southern District of Florida, arguing that venue is improper. The government has filed an opposition, and the judge’s decision on both the venue motion and the dismissal request is pending. The trial is slated for later this year.
