Disgraced NBA star’s gambling addiction included betting millions on Russian Ping-Pong

Former NBA player Jontay Porter wagered more than $50 million at FanDuel over roughly 18 months, according to a profile published in The New Yorker by Nick Berardini. The report reveals the extensive scale of Porter's gambling addiction, which included betting massive amounts on Russian ping-pong and taking out a $500,000 loan on a Memphis home that he ultimately sold to finance his gambling wagers.

Porter was banned for life by the NBA in April 2024 after manipulating his game performances for the Toronto Raptors to clear mounting gambling debts. He later pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit wire fraud and faces up to 20 years in prison while awaiting sentencing.