NBA loses case! Arbitrator sides with Rozier: $26.6 million withheld salary to be fully paid

On February 3rd Beijing time, ESPN reported citing insiders that in the arbitration case regarding salary between Miami Heat guard Terry Rozier and the NBA, the arbitrator delivered a decision supporting Rozier today. The conflict arose after Rozier was federally prosecuted in a gambling probe.

Sources revealed that the arbitrator determined, based on the terms of the labor agreement, that except for cases involving domestic violence or child abuse, the league cannot impose unpaid suspensions on players; therefore, Rozier’s salary withheld since last December will be paid in full.

In October last year, Rozier was arrested and federally charged due to his involvement in the gambling investigation, with Portland Trail Blazers coach Chauncey Billups also indicted in the case. Subsequently, the Heat and NBA agreed to withhold Rozier’s 2025-26 season salary (approximately $26.6 million). The players’ union appealed this salary withholding agreement.

A spokesperson for the players’ union stated to ESPN: “We are pleased with the arbitrator’s decision and will continue to advocate for Terry’s due process rights, ensuring he is presumed innocent throughout the proceedings.”

ESPN has sought comment from the NBA on this matter but has not yet received a response.

Rozier pleaded not guilty in court to charges of conspiracy related to telecom fraud and money laundering. In December last year, his legal team filed a motion to dismiss the case citing government overreach. Authorities are expected to respond to this motion today.

Federal prosecutors allege that in March 2023, while Rozier was still with the Charlotte Hornets, he informed an associate that he would leave a game early. The associate allegedly sold this information to gamblers, who then wagered over $200,000 betting that Rozier’s individual performance in that game would fall short of expectations.

Currently, Rozier remains on the Heat’s roster but has yet to make an appearance this season.