Jontay Porter Seeks Court Approval to Resume Basketball Career in Greece

Jontay Porter, banned from the NBA after admitting to intentionally underperforming to aid bettors, has requested permission from a federal court to continue his basketball career in Greece.

In a letter from his attorney Jeff Jensen, Porter is asking for modifications to his bond conditions, including the return of his U.S. passport and the ability to travel and reside in Europe. Jensen informed the court that Porter plans to play for the Greek club Promitheas BC in Patras.

Prosecutors have not opposed the request. Jensen emphasised the urgency, stating, "The proposed modification would allow Mr. Porter to pursue a very fortunate - and quickly diminishing - opportunity to earn income through his primary skillset. Since being banned from the NBA, there have been no other opportunities available to continue his basketball career."

Porter, 24, pleaded guilty last month to a federal conspiracy charge, leading to his NBA ban. He is currently free on a $250,000 bond and faces sentencing on December 18, with a potential prison term of three and a half to four years.

Jensen noted that Porter's actions were driven by a gambling addiction. Porter has completed inpatient rehab and continues therapy virtually, which would not be disrupted by a move to Greece. Promitheas BC has also arranged for in-person counseling and family support in Greece, as Porter's wife is expecting a baby.

Porter averaged 4.4 points, 3.2 rebounds, and 2.3 assists in 26 games for Toronto last season and played 11 games for Memphis in the 2020-21 season. NBA Commissioner Adam Silver banned Porter in April after a league investigation revealed that he disclosed confidential information to bettors and wagered on games.

Read more: Greek basketball

(Source: Associated Press)