Jontay Porter, who was banned from the NBA after admitting to aiding bettors by intentionally underperforming in games, has requested a federal court to modify his bond conditions to resume his playing career in Greece. The 24-year-old, in a letter sent by his attorney Jeff Jensen, is asking for his U.S. passport to be returned and for permission to travel and reside in Europe.
Porter intends to join the Greek club Promitheas BC in Patras, Greece. Jensen highlighted that prosecutors do not oppose the request, emphasizing the narrow window for Porter to continue earning an income through professional basketball. “The proposed modification would allow Mr. Porter to pursue a very fortunate — and quickly diminishing — opportunity to earn income through his primary skillset,” Jensen wrote, stressing the rarity of such opportunities following his NBA ban.
Porter, who pleaded guilty last month to a federal conspiracy charge related to the betting scandal, is currently free on a $250,000 bond while awaiting his December 18 sentencing. Prosecutors estimate his prison sentence could range from just under three and a half years to a little over four years.
Jensen noted that Porter, who has struggled with a gambling addiction, has undergone inpatient rehab and continues virtual therapy, which would not be disrupted by his move to Greece. The Greek club has also arranged for in-person counseling and family support for Porter, whose wife is expecting a baby.
Porter, who averaged 4.4 points, 3.2 rebounds, and 2.3 assists in 26 games for Toronto last season, was banned by NBA Commissioner Adam Silver in April after a league investigation revealed he shared confidential information with sports bettors and wagered on games.
