Jontay Porter, who recently pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit wire fraud for his role in an NBA betting scheme, had his request to play professionally in Greece next season denied by a judge.
Porter’s attorney Tuesday sent a letter to US District Court Judge LaShann DeArcy Hall, requesting for modification of bond conditions. An approval of the request would clear the way for Porter to continue his career with Promitheas BC in the Greek Basketball League.
However, Judge Hall ruled against him.
Porter, formally of the Toronto Raptors, received a lifetime ban for violating NBA betting policy.
Attorney: No objection from officials
Attorney Jeff Jensen wrote to Hall that the US Attorney’s Office and the Pretrial Services Officer have “no objection.”
Porter’s bond would be modified so he could get back his passport, travel to Europe and live in Patras, Greece.
“The proposed modification would allow Mr. Porter to pursue a very fortunate – and quickly diminishing – opportunity to earn income through his primary skillset. Mr. Porter, and more importantly his agent, believe such an opportunity is unlikely to arise again,” Jensen wrote. “… Mr. Porter has a limited window to earn an income through professional basketball during his prime earning years as a professional athlete.”
NBA betting case takes priority
Jensen wrote that Porter would be accompanied by his family, and be under close supervision of his Greek team. According to Jensen, the team was understanding that Porter might need to be back in court in New York.
Porter faces sentencing on Dec. 18. He faces up to four years in prison for his crimes.
“This proposed modification would not interfere with existing obligations to travel to New York to comply with any Court obligation. Mr. Porter and his prospective employer understand the ongoing obligations and the fact Mr. Porter could be called back to the United States at a moment’s notice. Further, the proposed modification would not interfere with his existing treatment plan, which is exclusively virtual, and Promitheas BC has made available opportunities to receive inperson counseling in Patras, Greece as well,” Jensen wrote.
Betting scheme does not pay off
Porter participated in the NBA betting scheme with four co-conspirators, who have also since been charged.
Porter agreed to provide inside information and throw his performance in order to clear a gambling debt.
One $80,000 parlay placed on the ex-Raptor could have netted over $1 million had it not been flagged by DraftKings.