"Going to get worse" - NBA players face dark side of sports betting and death threats

Sports betting is booming in the NBA, but not all is fun. Behind the glitz and money, players are facing threats and harassment. Every missed shot or rebound can trigger anger from fans with bets on the line.

Even top stars like Michael Porter Jr and Kendrick Perkins are speaking out.

The pressure is real, and the game they love is starting to feel dangerous.

NBA players Michael Porter Jr and Kendrick Perkins speak out on threats

Michael Porter Jr, now with the Brooklyn Nets, warned about the growing dangers of sports betting. He said it has "completely taken the purity and the fun away from the game at times" and added the situation is "going to get worse." Fans’ anger over bets has put players in uncomfortable and risky situations.

Kendrick Perkins, former NBA player and current analyst, also shared his experience. He received death threats after comments on players like Giannis Antetokounmpo. Perkins explained that fans’ betting frustrations can quickly turn into harassment, showing the darker side of NBA fandom.

Even ordinary social media interactions are no longer safe. Many players’ accounts are flooded with abusive messages linked to betting outcomes.

NCAA research also shows college athletes face similar threats, with 12% of hostile messages tied to gambling, showing the problem is widespread.

Jontay Porter banned for life after betting scandal

In 2024, former Toronto Raptors player Jontay Porter suffered serious repercussions. After it was found that he shared privileged information and restricted his own play to influence gambling outcomes, he was banned from the NBA for lifetime. Charges of a criminal nature resulted from his acts as well.

This instance emphasizes how sports betting can cross a boundary and compromise the game's integrity. It also serves as a caution to fans and players that manipulation has serious repercussions.

NBA commissioner Adam Silver responds to growing concerns

Regarding the dangers of authorized sports betting, NBA Commissioner Adam Silver has commented. He said that to find criminal activity and safeguard the game, a regulated system is required. Still, the present precautions might not be sufficient as threats and scandals persist.Better digital security, monitoring betting activity, and more rigorous standards will help the NBA to safeguard its players. Education campaigns are also planned to remind fans that players are real people, not just performers for betting apps.Also Read: 'I want to give back to kids' - Michael Jordan proudly donated $8.9 million after winning supermarket lawThe league wants to keep the sport fair, safe, and enjoyable. Fans enjoy betting, but players should never be in danger because of it. Protecting athletes while maintaining the excitement of the game is the top priority.