Former Raptors big man Jontay Porter pleaded guilty on Wednesday to a federal felony charge of conspiracy to commit wire fraud, reports Jennifer Peltz of The Associated Press.
“I know what I did was wrong, unlawful, and I am deeply sorry,” said Porter, who was released on a $250K bond signed by his mother and wife, according to Mike Vorkunov of The Athletic. Porter’s sentencing is set for December 18 in New York.
Prosecutors estimated that Porter could receive 41 to 51 months in prison, but the final say will come from a judge, who could impose no time or up to a maximum of 20 years. The 24-year-old is also likely to be docked “hundreds of thousands of dollars in restitution and fines,” per Peltz.
Porter, who told the court he is in therapy and has received inpatient rehabilitation for a gambling addiction, was banned from the NBA in April following an investigation into betting-related irregularities.
Porter is tied to another federal case involving four men who are also charged with conspiracy to commit wire fraud. The defendants are accused of profiting from prop bets based on the knowledge that Porter would exit a pair of games early. The complaint also alleges that Porter – who isn’t identified by name but fits the description of the player described – was supposed to receive a portion of the winnings. Porter was allegedly pressured by one of the defendants due outstanding gambling debts. The four defendants have yet to enter pleas.
In 26 games for Toronto in 2023/24, Porter averaged 4.4 points, 3.2 rebounds, and 2.3 assists in 13.8 minutes per night. He earned $415K last season while on a two-way contract with the Raptors.
Give him 44months to match his 4.4PPG average
Seems a little harsh for the crime
What about 4 months and 4 days to match his avg.
Four days and four hours.
The NBA made their bed and have to lie in it…
They opened the door for this to happen…
They seem to be doing just fine, no?
At least he can share a cell with his brother
Young and stupid ……
Has to be banned for life. I wonder in he can play in Europe for awhile. At least make some coin before getting too old.
This is not a jail worthy “crime”. Don’t even really consider it a crime, just a violation of league rules.
And considering they are officially partners with the gambling company he could hopefully fight any jail time due to conflict of interest.
It was definitely a stupid thing he did because he knew it was against the rules but nobody was hurt or abused and he lost his career… probably the only thing he’s ever wanted to do with his life, gone forever. Put actual criminals in jail.