Michael Porter Jr., forward for the Denver Nuggets, has openly addressed the increasing influence of sports betting on NBA players, cautioning that the issues will escalate as gambling becomes more integrated into the league. Speaking on the ‘One Night with Steiny‘ podcast, Porter Jr. highlighted the financial strain, ethical dilemmas, and hostile fan reactions, including death threats, that can result from the growing betting culture.
Michael Porter Jr. Highlights Dangers From Betting Pressures on Players
Michael Porter Jr. shed light on how sports gambling is creating complex challenges for NBA players, using examples involving his brother Jonte Porter, Malik Beasley, and Terry Rozier. He explained that the situation is worsening, with players facing threats and fan backlash depending on how bets fall during games.
Obviously, my brother is in his situation, Malik Beasley is going through his situation, Terry Rozier is in hot water,
Porter Jr. said.
But the whole sports gambling thing is only going to get worse, and we really do get death threats. You can’t win anymore because if I do too good I’m messing with people who bet on the under, and if they bet on my over… so you’re always messing up some people’s money.
—Michael Porter Jr., Denver Nuggets Forward
Although sports betting remains illegal in some states, its rapid growth is deeply affecting the relationship between fans and NBA athletes. Porter Jr. described the temptation players feel to exploit the system, especially when they see betting as a way to help themselves and those close to them financially.
Think about if you can get all your homies rich by telling them, ‘yo bet $10,000 on my under this one game, I’m gonna act like I got an injury. I’m gonna come out after three minutes.’ They all get a little bag because you did it in one game. That is not okay, but some people probably think like that; they come from nothing, and all their homies have nothing,
he continued.
And they’re like ‘Bro, if I come out of this game after three minutes and y’all all get my under, we’re all getting a little bag…’
—Michael Porter Jr., Denver Nuggets Forward
Recent Player Scandals Expose the Risks Linked to NBA Betting
The NBA’s growing connection to legalized sports wagering is coinciding with a series of controversies that underscore the damaging effects on players. Jonte Porter, Michael’s brother, recently had his gambling addiction revealed publicly, illustrating the deep personal struggles that can accompany betting involvement.
Malik Beasley is currently facing an investigation related to alleged participation in betting activities tied to NBA games and player-specific wagers. His future in the league is uncertain, as a potential contract with the Detroit Pistons remains unsigned while inquiries continue.
Terry Rozier is also embroiled in scandal after reports emerged that a professional gambler placed 30 bets on Rozier within 45 minutes. Authorities suspect Rozier deliberately influenced gameplay to profit from these wagers, casting serious doubts over the integrity of the competition.
NBA Faces Pressure to Safeguard Players and Preserve Game Integrity
Porter Jr.’s insights emphasize the difficult balance the NBA must strike as it embraces sports betting while confronting the very real dangers it poses. Increasing amounts of money flowing into gambling amplify stress on athletes, who may find themselves torn between financial gain and ethical boundaries. The league now confronts the urgent need to protect players from coercion and threats, while maintaining public trust in the fairness of the game.