Jontay Porter, permanently banned from the NBA for gambling violations in 2024, plans to resume his professional basketball career with the Seattle Superhawks of the newly revived United States Basketball League (USBL). The Superhawks announced the signing on Wednesday, ahead of their season opener on March 7.
Porter’s NBA Ban and Legal Challenges
Porter faces sentencing after pleading guilty in July 2024 to conspiracy to commit wire fraud in federal court in Brooklyn. The felony charge carries a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison, but he anticipates a sentence of 3 to 4 years.
Investigators accused Porter of intentionally underperforming in two games for the Toronto Raptors during the 2023-24 season to help gamblers cash in on prop bets. An NBA probe also revealed that he placed bets on 13 league games he did not participate in during 2024, netting $22,000 in winnings.
Expanded Federal Investigation
Prosecutors in New York’s Eastern District have broadened the probe, leading to indictments of dozens involved in gambling schemes, including Miami Heat guard Terry Rozier and Portland Trail Blazers coach Chauncey Billups.
Prior Attempts to Return to Play
In 2024, Porter sought permission from a federal judge to join a team in Greece, but the request was denied. Over two NBA seasons, he appeared in 37 games.
