NBPA challenges Terry Rozier’s unpaid suspension after arrest in gambling investigation

The National Basketball Association (NBA) is once again facing scrutiny after being linked to an alleged illegal gambling and match-fixing operation in the United States.

Federal prosecutors have reportedly named Miami Heat guard Terry Rozier and Portland Trail Blazers head coach Chauncey Billups in connection with an ongoing investigation into mafia-linked sports betting and underground poker games. Authorities allege that Billups was arrested for his role in an illicit poker operation, while Rozier is accused of participating in a scheme to influence game outcomes.

Officials say the probe involves four of New York’s notorious crime families — the Bonanno, Gambino, Genovese, and Lucchese organizations — with more than 30 individuals arrested across multiple states in what investigators describe as one of the largest illegal gambling crackdowns in recent years.

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Both Rozier and Billups have been placed on leave following their indictments. According to reports, neither is being paid during their suspension, with their salaries held in escrow pending the resolution of the charges.

Statement from an NBPA spokesperson on Terry Rozier: “While we are in agreement with the league that upholding the integrity of the game is of the utmost importance, their decision to place Terry on leave without pay is counter to the presumption of innocence and inconsistent…

— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) October 29, 2025

The NBA Players Association (NBPA) has challenged the league’s decision to suspend Rozier without pay. In a statement shared by ESPN’s Shams Charania, an NBPA spokesperson said: 

“While we agree that maintaining the integrity of the game is of utmost importance, the decision to place Terry on leave without pay runs counter to the presumption of innocence and is inconsistent with the terms of our Collective Bargaining Agreement. We plan to challenge this decision through the appropriate channels.”

The NBPA’s stance underscores its commitment to protecting player rights and preventing a precedent that allows for unpaid suspensions before due process is complete. The NBA, meanwhile, is defending its decision to hold the funds in escrow, arguing that it safeguards both the league and its franchises — ensuring Rozier is compensated if cleared, while protecting the team’s finances if he is found guilty.

Rozier’s attorney has denied all allegations, stating, “Terry is not a gambler, but he’s not afraid of a fight, and he looks forward to clearing his name.” The Heat guard was recently taken into custody in Orlando. Over his career, Rozier has earned roughly $160 million and is currently in the final year of a four-year, $96 million contract. Billups, a five-time NBA All-Star and 2004 NBA Finals MVP with the Detroit Pistons, retired in 2014 and has served as the Trail Blazers’ head coach since 2021.

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