Ex-Toronto Raptors player Jontay Porter admitted involvement in a sports gambling scandal, leading to his ban from the NBA, after pleading guilty to criminal conspiracy on Wednesday. Porter, who is 24 years old, pleaded guilty to a wire fraud conspiracy charge in Brooklyn federal court before US Magistrate Judge James Cho.
Violation of NBA Policies
Porter was banned by the NBA in April for making 13 bets on games within the league, one of which was against his own team. During the court hearing, Porter admitted to acquiring large debts from gambling and coordinating with others to inform them of his intention to leave games early, enabling them to make money by betting against him. Porter apologized sincerely, mentioning he had completed a gambling rehabilitation program and was now in therapy.
Court Proceedings and Sentencing
Porter was granted bail in the amount of $250,000, which was signed by both his mother and wife. His sentencing is set for December 18, and he has agreed not to challenge a sentence of four and three-quarter years or fewer in prison.
Details of the Conspiracy
Four additional men were accused by prosecutors of plotting to deceive a sports betting company in connection with two Raptors games. They were aware from internal sources that Porter would exit the games ahead of time. Porter suffered an eye injury after playing for just four minutes against the Los Angeles Clippers on January 26. During the game against the Sacramento Kings on March 20,. He participated for three minutes before mentioning that he wasn’t feeling well. The men are said to have earned more than $1 million. By wagering on Porter’s performance to be lower than expected.
Connection to Gambling Debts
Porter owed a large sum of money from gambling to a man named Ammar Awawdeh. Who advised him to leave games early as a way to pay off his debts. Awawdeh has been released on $100,000 bail and has not submitted a plea yet. According to prosecutors, Porter stated this in an April 4 group chat. They may be targeted by a racketeering charge, referencing a song about anti-racketeering laws. Moreover, Porter reportedly inquired with the men about whether they had removed any potentially damaging data from their cell phones.
This controversy showcases the serious consequences of breaking NBA betting rules. The influence of gambling addiction on the careers of professional athletes.
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