Jontay Porter, amid lifetime ban from NBA for gambling, signs with USBL's Seattle SuperHawks
CBS Sports
by
Carter Bahns
February 25, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Jontay Porter, who faced a lifetime ban from the NBA due to gambling violations, has found a new beginning with the Seattle SuperHawks of the USBL (United States Basketball League). This marks his first professional basketball opportunity since being banned by the NBA in 2024. The USBL, known for its commitment to fair competition, is making waves by welcoming Porter despite his controversial past.
The USBL's values emphasize that game outcomes should be determined solely by skill and effort, aligning with its mission to restore trust in professional basketball. As one of eight teams in the league's rebirth, the SuperHawks are part of a league that has historically produced NBA talent, including players like Manute Bol and Spud Webb.
Porter's return comes amid ongoing scrutiny from his involvement in an FBI investigation into illegal sports betting. He pleaded guilty to conspiracy charges related to wire fraud, with evidence showing he provided insider information about his health status to bettors. This led to significant wagering activity on his player props during the 2024 season.
The NBA's strict gambling policies prohibit players from betting on league games and require annual anti-gambling training. Porter's case highlights the league's zero-tolerance approach, as he was banned for life after being found guilty of violating these rules.
Porter's signing with the USBL raises questions about how leagues balance transparency with fair competition. The USBL's decision to include him despite his past underscores its commitment to giving players a second chance while maintaining integrity in the game. For sports fans, this story sheds light on the complexities of gambling in professional sports and the impact it can have on both players and leagues.
This situation matters because it addresses broader issues around gambling in sports, the NBA's stance on player conduct, and alternative opportunities for athletes facing bans. Porter's journey with the USBL could serve as a test case for how other leagues
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Originally published on CBS Sports on 2/25/2026