On Thursday, Oct. 23, Portland Trail Blazers head coach Chauncey Billups and Miami Heat guard Terry Rozier were reportedly arrested on account of illegal gambling. An investigation was launched, and the news went viral as fans debated professional leagues and sports betting.
Of course, one expected a clear response from the NBA. The NBAÂ — like most professional leagues — is strict about its rules, especially those that involve illegal betting by those representing the league.
NBA Takes Swift Action as Chauncey Billups and Terry Rozier Placed on Leave Amid Betting Scandal
In a recent statement, the NBA broke the silence on the FBI’s shocking move. The NBAÂ is yet to make a final decision, but is currently focused on reviewing all the arrests made today.
However, both Rozier and Chauncey are relieved of their duties with the team for the time being.
NBA statement on Billups and Rozier being placed on leave from their respective teams: https://t.co/Bm1rC3Jwq1 pic.twitter.com/aoXqj4IEAL
— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) October 23, 2025
“We are in the process of reviewing the federal indictments announced today. Terry Rozier and Chauncey Billups are being placed on immediate leave from their teams, and we will continue to cooperate with the relevant authorities. We take these allegations with the utmost seriousness, and the integrity of our game remains our top priority,” the NBA said in a statement.
ESPN’s Shams Charania broke the news, initially revealing that the league has placed the two on leave.
Per reports, Rozier was taken into custody as part of an ongoing investigation into illegal sports betting. Furthermore, Rozier was also linked to the betting scandal involving former Toronto Raptors center Jontay Porter, who was banned from the NBA in the spring of 2024 for his role in a player prop betting scheme.
It was also revealed that Billups was reportedly arrested for an illegal gambling operation. He was allegedly involved in high-stakes poker games, which were apparently “rigged by the mafia.”
What Are the NBA’s Rules About Illegal Betting?
Considering the matter’s sensitive nature, the NBA has an extensive list of betting rules. While some forms of sports betting are permitted, many are highly illegal — especially in states and countries that do not allow it.
ESPN’s Bobby Marks clarified these rules, shedding light on what’s allowed and what’s not.
“Governors, team investors, team and league employees, players, with the exception of referees, may engage in casino gambling and betting on non-NBA league sports in places where it is legal,” Marks explained.
Of course, anyone in the league must acknowledge their responsibility, especially within an organization.
With the investigations ongoing, there’s no update on Billups and Rozier’s future in the league.
