Joetae Porter will play professional basketball again.
Porter, who was banned for life from the NBA in 2024 over a gambling scandal, signed a deal with the Seattle Super Eagles to play in the re-established American Basketball League, the team announced Wednesday.
advertise
Porter played two seasons in the NBA, appearing in a total of 37 games, most recently with the Toronto Raptors. However, just two games later, these words were said in order to influence the outcome of bets placed on his performance.
The NBA said Porter disclosed his medical information to a bettor he knew before a game. He also made 13 bets on NBA games using other people’s accounts, ranging from $15 to $22,000, the league said. None of those bets involved games he played, but he did bet on the Raptors.
“He couldn’t handle it because of his gambling addiction.” He pleaded guilty in 2024 to conspiracy to commit wire fraud, a felony punishable by up to 20 years in prison. According to reports, he is expected to receive a sentence of three to four years in prison when he is sentenced.
A federal judge denied Porter’s request to continue playing professionally in Greece. If he takes the court when the league begins next month, it will mark Porter’s first professional game since playing for the Raptors.
advertise
Porter’s gambling scandal is one of several to rock the league in recent years. Last fall, Miami Heat guard. He has pleaded not guilty and denies the charges. Portland Trail Blazers head coach.
The first season of the USBL dates back to 1985 and lasted until 2008. Play will resume on March 6 with eight new teams — Yakima Heat, Vancouver Bears, Bakersfield Majesties, Seattle Super Eagles, Salem Capitals, Lilac City Legends, San Diego Surf and Los Angeles Blue Wave — all on the West Coast.
The Super Eagles will open their season on March 7 against the Legends.
