Two additional individuals charged in betting scandal leading to NBA’s lifetime ban of Raptors’ Jontay Porter

Two more men have been charged in the sports betting scandal that led to the NBA banning former Toronto Raptors player Jontay Porter for life. Timothy McCormack and Mahmud Mollah are now facing federal wire fraud charges along with two other defendants in connection with the case.

While prosecutors have not publicly named Porter in connection with the case, details in the court documents align with Porter’s banishment from the NBA in April. The investigation found that Porter had tipped off bettors about his health and then claimed illness to exit games early, allowing certain wagers to succeed. He also allegedly placed bets on games in which he did not play, including betting against his own team.

McCormack, Mollah, and the other defendants are accused of participating in a scheme to manipulate Porter into leaving games early so that they could win bets against his performance. Mollah reportedly won over $1.3 million on a bet during a March 20 game, with the other defendants also set to receive a portion of the winnings.

Both McCormack and Mollah were granted $50,000 bond each after their arraignments, while Pham remains in custody pending further details. The complaint alleges that Porter had accumulated significant gambling debts and was pressured by the unnamed defendant to leave games early to ensure the success of bets against him.

The NBA prohibits players, coaches, referees, and team personnel from betting on league games or events. In response to the scandal, NBA Commissioner Adam Silver called Porter’s actions “blatant” and imposed a lifetime ban on him.

As the investigation continues, the defendants are facing federal charges related to wire fraud and illegal sports betting. The case highlights the serious consequences of engaging in illegal gambling activities, especially for those involved in professional sports. Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story.