The idea of an NBA team hosting a “Sports Betting” promotional night would have been noteworthy in and of itself, a clear indication of just how ingrained gambling has become in American sports culture. But the timing of the Charlotte Hornets’ Bet365-sponsored promotion is certainly curious, as it coincides with their March 17 matchup against the Miami Heat.
As you may have recalled, the Hornets traded Terry Rozier to the Heat in January 2024, one year before it was revealed that federal prosecutors were investigating unusual betting patterns surrounding the combo guard’s play when he was still a member of Charlotte’s roster. While ESPN’s Shams Charania seemingly indicated that Rozier has since been cleared, that doesn’t appear to be the case, with both Pablo Torre Finds Out and former TNT Sports reporter Chris Haynes reporting that the federal investigation is still ongoing. Meanwhile, the Miami Herald‘s Barry Jackson noted that a previous NBA investigation uncovered no wrongdoing by Rozier.
Barring a potential trade, release, injury or any other change to the Louisville product’s playing status, that means he’ll presumably be in the building on the same night that his former team hosts its “Sports Betting” night promotion. And if the opponent for the promotion didn’t raise enough questions, it’s also worth noting that March 17 will be Rozier’s 32nd birthday.
This is wild:
On March 17, the Hornets are hosting “Sports Betting Night” against the Miami Heat.
March 17 is also Terry Rozier’s birthday — and he’s a former Hornet. pic.twitter.com/2jguu4hwos
— NBACentral (@TheDunkCentral) September 10, 2025
Add it all up and it’s fair to wonder whether this is a not-so-subtle troll job or one hell of a coincidence. Either way, it’s fairly surprising the NBA would sign off on this promotion occurring alongside this specific game.
About Ben Axelrod
Ben Axelrod is a veteran of the sports media landscape, having most recently worked for NBC's Cleveland affiliate, WKYC. Prior to his time in Cleveland, he covered Ohio State football and the Big Ten for outlets including Cox Media Group, Bleacher Report, Scout and Rivals.