Jontay Porter, a banned NBA player, recently had his request to play professional basketball in Greece denied by a federal judge. This decision came just one week after Porter pleaded guilty to conspiracy charges related to a betting scandal. Judge LaShann DeArcy Hall published a docket post on Tuesday night in which she refused to give Porter permission to play for Promitheas BC in the Greek Basketball League and Champions League in Europe.
Porter’s attorneys had requested Hall to return their client’s U.S. passport and allow him to travel in Europe. They also asked for permission for Porter to reside in Patras, Greece, with his wife and the baby they are expecting. The request was unopposed by the United States attorney’s office and the United States pretrial services officer. However, despite this, the judge decided against granting Porter permission to play professional basketball in Greece.
Porter’s attorneys assured the court that his overseas plans would not interfere with any of his legal obligations. They also mentioned that Promitheas BC officials are aware that Porter could be called back to the United States “at a moment’s notice.” Additionally, Porter would continue his treatment plan for gambling addiction while overseas, and the team had plans to offer in-person counseling opportunities in Greece.
Porter pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit wire fraud in federal court on July 10 for his involvement in a betting scandal. The scandal revolved around prop bets on Porter’s statistics in two games during the past season. As a result, he was banned from the NBA in April and could potentially face between 3½ to over four years in prison. It is worth noting that four other individuals have also been charged in connection to the case.
Despite Porter’s efforts to continue his basketball career in Greece, the federal judge’s decision to deny his request highlights the serious consequences of his involvement in the betting scandal. It serves as a reminder of the importance of upholding the integrity of professional sports and following legal obligations.