Los Angeles Clippers Sign Guard Kevin Porter Jr. as NBA Resumes Investigation into Domestic Violence Allegations

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ICARO Media Group
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10/07/2024 23h27

In a recent announcement on Wednesday, the Los Angeles Clippers revealed that they have signed guard Kevin Porter Jr. However, alongside the signing comes the news that the NBA will be resuming its investigation into Porter's domestic violence case, as confirmed by a league spokesperson to CBS Sports. The initial report was made by The Athletic's Law Murray.

The incident in question took place in September of last year when Porter, who was then a member of the Houston Rockets, was arrested and charged with assault and strangulation. According to a criminal complaint, his then-girlfriend and former WNBA player, Kysre Gondrezick, told the police that Porter had punched her repeatedly in the face and strangled her. Following the incident, the league launched an investigation, which was put on hold when the Oklahoma City Thunder waived Porter as part of a trade with the Rockets.

Interestingly, in October of the same year, Gondrezick contradicted the statements attributed to her in the police report. She told the New York Post that Porter "never balled his fists up and hit me" and denied being punched in the face multiple times. Nonetheless, Porter did not participate in the NBA during the 2023-24 season.

In January, Porter pleaded guilty to misdemeanor assault and a harassment violation. As per the terms of the plea deal, Porter has the opportunity to withdraw his guilty plea and clear his criminal record after one year if he successfully completes a court-ordered treatment program, avoids any further arrests, attends all court dates, and adheres to the order of protection.

Following his absence from the NBA, Porter signed with PAOK, a Greek team, in April. He played six games in the Greek league. However, with his recent signing by the Los Angeles Clippers, the NBA has decided to resume its investigation into the domestic violence allegations.

NBA Commissioner Adam Silver addressed the issue back in September during a media availability, emphasizing the seriousness of the allegations. He stated that the league's domestic violence policy, collectively bargained with the Players Association, reinforces their commitment to addressing such matters.

Although the investigation is ongoing, the league has the opportunity to take the necessary time to gather information and understand the situation as it is currently the offseason. Silver noted that if a similar case occurred during the season, there would be a sense of urgency to take immediate action. However, the league remains deferential to law enforcement authorities during the investigation process.

It is important to note that Porter has previously faced allegations of violence. During his time with the Cleveland Cavaliers, he was accused of punching a woman in the face and ripping out her weave during an argument in August 2020. However, no charges were filed in that particular case.

As the investigation resumes, the NBA will seek to gather all relevant information to make an informed decision regarding Porter's future in the league.

The views expressed in this article do not reflect the opinion of ICARO, or any of its affiliates.

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