UPDATE: The NBA is taking urgent action following a significant betting scandal that has raised concerns over the integrity of player prop bets. Sources confirm that the league is actively reviewing vulnerable betting types and implementing stricter limits on wagers to prevent manipulation.
In light of recent allegations involving Terry Rozier, who is accused of conspiring with gamblers to manipulate his performance stats, the NBA has directed its partner sportsbooks, including FanDuel and DraftKings, to halt wagers on specific player actions such as missed free throws, turnovers, and fouls. This move follows Rozier’s indictment, where it was revealed that he notified a friend about his intention to leave a March 2023 game early, allowing significant bets to be placed on the under for his statistics.
The NBA’s proactive measures come as federal authorities suggest that Rozier’s insider information was sold for approximately $100,000. Reports indicate that bettors wagered a staggering $257,700 on the under for Rozier’s performance, leading sportsbooks to remove these bets just hours before the game. This has prompted an immediate reevaluation of prop betting limits, particularly for high-risk wagers.
“Prop bets on individual player performance can raise heightened integrity concerns,” an NBA spokesperson stated. The league plans to closely collaborate with sportsbooks to ensure that only safe betting options are available as the 2024-25 season approaches.
The fallout from this scandal also touches on former NBA player Jontay Porter, who was banned after admitting to manipulating his performance during games for personal gain. This incident highlights the growing popularity of prop bets, especially in parlays, which have become a substantial portion of basketball betting activity.
Both FanDuel and DraftKings have expressed their commitment to working with the NBA to maintain the integrity of the sport. A DraftKings spokesperson stated, “Recent events demonstrate that the regulated sports betting industry is working as intended to uncover suspicious activity.” Meanwhile, FanDuel noted its ongoing discussions with the league to assess which bets to offer, emphasizing the removal of prop bets for players on two-way or ten-day contracts following the Porter case.
The Sports Betting Alliance (SBA) warns that overly restrictive measures could push bettors toward illegal platforms that lack oversight and consumer protections. “That creates a dangerous blind spot for regulators and leagues,” said SBA President Jeremy Kudon.
As the NBA’s investigation unfolds, fans and bettors alike are left watching closely. The outcome of this situation could reshape how sportsbooks operate and what betting options are available moving forward.
Stay tuned for continuous updates as this story develops and impacts the landscape of sports betting.
