A federal judge in Brooklyn has sentenced Timothy McCormack to two years in prison, the first sentencing in a widening conspiracy linked to illegal sports betting involving professional basketball players. McCormack, who has publicly acknowledged a long-term gambling addiction, admitted to participating in a scheme that used confidential player information to place wagers across multiple licensed sportsbooks.

The sentence was imposed by Judge LaShann DeArcy Hall in the US District Court for the Eastern District of New York. Prosecutors had sought a four-year term, while McCormack’s defense argued that incarceration was unnecessary given his addiction and his relatively minor role. The court opted for a reduced sentence while highlighting the seriousness of the offense.

Judge addresses character and conduct

During the hearing, Judge DeArcy Hall acknowledged McCormack’s history of compulsive gambling, but stated that though his actions were criminal, they do not define him. At the same time, the court agreed with prosecutors that the scheme undermined trust in professional sport. The judge emphasised that the integrity of competition matters not only to leagues and regulators but also to fans and the public at large.

Federal authorities said McCormack exploited non-public information about player performance to place highly profitable wagers. While less culpable than other participants, prosecutors argued his actions were essential to executing a deliberate and calculated fraud. They stressed that anyone who enables such schemes must face consequences, regardless of their role in the conspiracy.

More convictions yet to be handed

The case also involves current and former NBA players. Terry Rozier, currently on unpaid leave from the Miami Heat, has pleaded not guilty to federal charges including wire fraud and conspiracy to commit money laundering. The allegations concern bets connected to his individual statistical performance during a March 2023 game with the Charlotte Hornets. Rozier remains free on a $3 million bond and is due back in court in March.

Former player Jontay Porter has pleaded guilty to a federal conspiracy charge, admitting he deliberately withdrew from games to influence betting outcomes. This conduct led to his permanent ban from the NBA. Porter is still awaiting sentencing.

Case highlights major sports betting concerns

McCormack’s conviction marks the first judicial outcome in an ongoing investigation. The case has tested how federal authorities respond to gambling-related corruption in professional sport. 

As regulated sports betting grows popular in the United States, this investigation demonstrates the challenges of protecting integrity in competition. Officials have indicated that further convictions are expected, reflecting efforts to hold participants accountable and maintain public trust in professional leagues.