Former Charlotte Hornets guard Terry Rozier entered a courtroom on Wednesday and pleaded not guilty to charges of sports bribery and wire fraud conspiracy. Prosecutors allege he accepted a $100,000 bribe to tilt his performance in a 2023 Hornets game. The indictment stems from an alleged scheme to profit betting platforms by exploiting insider knowledge of his actions. A judge scheduled the trial for Feb. 8, 2027.

Rozier’s bail forbids any contact with the Hornets or the NBA, a condition he asked the court to relax. The league argues the restriction protects its integrity, while his lawyer claims it bars him from signing with another team. NBA officials framed the organization as a victim, intensifying the legal battle. The NBA claims the restriction deters future manipulation and preserves fan trust.

Earlier this year Rozier pleaded not guilty to wire‑fraud and money‑laundering counts tied to the same March 2023 scheme. After the Hornets dealt him to Miami in January 2024, he spent two seasons with the Heat before being waived on April 10. The court’s schedule now forces the former All‑Star to confront his case while his playing future hangs in balance.