Attorneys representing former NBA player Terry Rozier, who is contesting federal charges related to gambling, have formally requested that a federal judge dismiss two of the four charges leveled against him: sports bribery and honest services wire fraud.

Rozier’s legal team contends that a March 2023 text message from co-defendant Deniro Laster, a friend of Rozier, demonstrates that Rozier had no involvement in any gambling scheme.

Laster allegedly sent a message instructing someone not to inform Rozier about a prop bet placed on him just six days earlier, while Rozier was still playing for the NBA’s Charlotte Hornets.

Defense Strives to Dismiss Charges

The text reportedly read, “Don’t tell chum ‘bout the bet,” as per Reuters. “Chum” is Rozier’s nickname.

The defense argues that Rozier was unaware of any gambling actions affecting his performance in the March 23, 2023 game against the New Orleans Pelicans. They assert he never consented to modify his playing style in return for a $100,000 payout. If the alleged conspirators were requesting not to inform Rozier about the bet, it signifies he wasn’t involved in the supposed conspiracy.

Evidence from Text Messages

Prosecutors allege that Rozier had indeed notified associates, including gamblers, that he intended to exit the game early, thus allowing bettors to profit on the under on his player props that evening.

Federal prosecutors claim that Laster’s text message is unrelated to gambling activities or any purported conspiracy. They have additional evidence suggesting the charges should remain intact.

Prosecution Objects

Rozier’s attorneys previously sought the dismissal of two other charges—wire fraud conspiracy and conspiracy to commit money laundering—in December, but the judge has yet to decide on that matter.

As of June 22, it was reported that both the NBA and the Hornets are supporting federal prosecutors in their push to uphold bond conditions on Rozier, which prohibit him from communicating with current or former team members while awaiting trial. This bond has hindered Rozier from returning to the NBA; he last played for the Miami Heat and was released by them in April.

Career Stalled

Initially arrested and indicted in October 2025, Rozier faced the added charges of sports bribery and honest services wire fraud conspiracy in May. He has pleaded not guilty to all four counts.

Rozier is scheduled to stand trial in February 2027.