NBA’s Adam Silver “Deeply Disturbed” by Indictments of Rozier, Billups

UPDATE: NBA Commissioner Adam Silver has expressed his profound concern following the federal indictments involving Miami Heat guard Terry Rozier and Portland Trail Blazers coach Chauncey Billups. Speaking during an interview at Madison Square Garden on Thursday, Silver stated he was “deeply disturbed” by the serious allegations, underscoring the league’s commitment to maintaining the integrity of the game.

In a critical moment for the NBA, Silver revealed, “There’s nothing more important to the league and its fans than the integrity of the competition.” He added, “I had a pit in my stomach. It was very upsetting.” This urgent response comes amid ongoing investigations into illegal sports betting and rigged poker games that have rocked the basketball community.

The indictments announced on Thursday involve a total of 34 individuals, including Rozier, Billups, and former Cleveland Cavaliers guard Damon Jones. Federal authorities allege that between December 2022 and March 2024, conspirators placed bets on at least seven NBA games, utilizing nonpublic information to gain an advantage.

Silver detailed the NBA’s proactive measures, explaining that the league had previously investigated “aberrational behavior” around a game on March 23, 2023, where Rozier, then with the Charlotte Hornets, was involved in suspicious betting activities. Although the NBA found no rule violations at that time, they have remained in close collaboration with federal regulators.

“We looked into the situation and were very transparent about it,” Silver said. “Despite that aberrational behavior, we ultimately concluded there was insufficient evidence.” However, he acknowledged the gravity of the current situation, stating, “The federal government has subpoena power… they can threaten to put people in jail, can do all kinds of things that the league office can’t do.”

Rozier is accused of sharing insider information about his performance, specifically notifying a friend that he would withdraw from the Hornets-Pelicans game due to an alleged injury. This information was reportedly sold for approximately $100,000 to bettors, who placed wagers based on Rozier’s expected performance. The indictment claims these bettors profited significantly when he exited the game early, recording just five points, two assists, and four rebounds.

The NBA has placed Rozier and Billups on administrative leave as investigations continue. Silver emphasized the balance between upholding individual rights and pressing forward with the investigation, which he described as ongoing and complex.

As this situation develops, the NBA remains committed to cooperating fully with federal authorities to uphold the integrity of the league. Fans and analysts alike are left to wonder how these events will impact the future of both Rozier and Billups within the NBA.

Stay tuned for more updates on this urgent story as it unfolds.