NBA Withholds Salaries of Rozier Billups Amid FBI Gambling Arrests

Miami Heat guard Terry Rozier and Portland Trail Blazers head coach Chauncey Billups have had their salaries suspended following their arrests on federal gambling-related charges, with Rozier's $26.6 million salary being held in escrow pending the outcome of his legal case. If Rozier is cleared, he may receive all withheld payments, while Billups is on unpaid leave according to team decisions. The NBA has provisions under its collective bargaining agreement allowing withheld salaries to be placed in interest-bearing accounts during investigations, but the Miami Heat will not receive salary cap relief as a result. The NBA Players' Association has expressed concern and plans to file a grievance on Rozier's behalf, arguing that the suspension without pay violates the presumption of innocence and the terms of the collective bargaining agreement. Both individuals were removed from team activities immediately after their arrests, which involved separate investigations into illegal betting and rigged poker games. NBA Commissioner Adam Silver stated he was deeply troubled by the situation, underscoring the league's commitment to protecting the integrity of the sport.