NBA Commissioner Silver “Deeply Disturbed” by Indictments

URGENT UPDATE: NBA Commissioner Adam Silver has expressed his profound concern regarding the recent federal indictments involving Miami Heat guard Terry Rozier and Portland Trail Blazers coach Chauncey Billups. Speaking live during the New York Knicks vs. Boston Celtics game at Madison Square Garden, Silver stated he was “deeply disturbed” by the allegations that surfaced on October 12, 2023, involving illegal sports betting and rigged poker games.

Officials announced that a total of 34 individuals were indicted, including Rozier and Billups, as part of a sweeping federal investigation. Silver revealed that his initial reaction to the news included a “pit in [his] stomach,” emphasizing that the league’s integrity is paramount to both players and fans.

The investigations were triggered by suspicious betting activity observed around a game on March 23, 2023, where Rozier was playing for the Charlotte Hornets. According to Silver, the NBA was alerted to “aberrational behavior” related to this game, leading to an internal investigation which ultimately found no violation of NBA rules at the time. Rozier was cooperative, providing his phone and participating in interviews, but the matter has escalated with the federal indictments.

Silver clarified that the league’s authority is limited compared to federal powers, stating, “The federal government has subpoena power… can do all kinds of things that the league office can’t do.” He reiterated the league’s commitment to working with federal authorities as the investigation continues.

The indictment accuses Rozier of sharing insider information and manipulating game outcomes for personal gain. Reports indicate that Rozier allegedly informed a childhood friend, Deniro Laster, about intentionally leaving the court early due to a fabricated injury. This insider knowledge was reportedly sold for approximately $100,000 to bettors who profited from the information.

Rozier’s involvement in the scandal has led to his immediate leave from the Miami Heat, alongside Billups. The NBA has stated it will continue to cooperate with ongoing investigations, which are expected to unfold in the coming weeks.

Fans and stakeholders are left questioning the integrity of the sport as the league grapples with these serious allegations. The actions taken by Silver and the league office reflect a broader concern for accountability and transparency in the wake of these shocking developments.

As more details emerge, the NBA community watches closely, knowing that the implications of these indictments could resonate far beyond just the individuals involved. Stay tuned for further updates as this story develops.