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Read Full BioFormer NBA player and occasional ESPN commentator Marcus Morris Sr. has been denied bond after his arrest on July 27 at Fort Lauderdale–Hollywood International Airport for allegedly writing bad checks worth $265,000 at two Las Vegas casinos.
The Allegations and Bond Denial
According to TMZ Sports, Morris Sr. is accused of writing two bad checks in 2024 and failing to pay them when they bounced. In May 2024, he allegedly wrote a $115,000 check at MGM Grand, and a month later, scammed Wynn Las Vegas for $150,000.
Earlier this year, Nevada authorities issued two arrest warrants for him. He faces four felony charges: two counts each for writing fraudulent checks exceeding $1,200 and two counts of theft exceeding $100,000.
At the July 29 hearing, the judge denied the defendant’s motion for bond. She would only release him to Nevada authorities for extradition, or if the warrants are withdrawn.
Morris remains in custody pending extradition.
Legal Defense & Fallout
Morris’s agent, Yony Noy, dismissed the accusations of fraud. In an X post, he characterized the situation as having risen from an outstanding marker with a casino. He added:
“Apparently, if you have over $1,200 [in debt], they can issue a warrant for your arrest. Absolute insanity!”
The defendant’s lawyers argued that releasing him would allow him to pay his debt more quickly, a point with which the judge disagreed.
Still, the lawyers also informed the court that “a large payment” had been sent via wire to begin resolving the issue. Reports indicate Nevada prosecutors may consider dismissing the charges if Morris pays his debts in full.
Who’s Marcus Morris Sr.?
Morris Sr. is a 13-season NBA veteran who last played in 2024. He played for eight teams, including the Rockets, Pistons, Suns, Celtics, Knicks, Clippers, 76ers, and Cavaliers.
He appeared in 832 NBA games and enjoyed a standout season in 2019–20, averaging a career-high 19.6 points per game with the New York Knicks. During his 13-year career, he earned over $100 million.
Currently a free agent, he’s worked in sports media, including appearances on ESPN’s “First Take.”
His twin brother, Markief Morris, is also an NBA veteran. He won the NBA championship with the Los Angeles Lakers in 2020.
Image Credit: All-Pro Reels from District of Columbia via Wikimedia Commons (license)
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