Jontay Porter involved in gambling scheme: texts revealed during NBA game

Former Toronto Raptors forward Jontay Porter texted alleged co-conspirators in his gambling case during an NBA game, according to newly released court documents. Authorities arrested 39-year-old Shane Hennen in Las Vegas on Sunday as he tried to board a one-way flight to Colombia. Hennen was carrying multiple cell phones and about $10,000 in cash at the time of his arrest. Hennen is the sixth person charged in the alleged betting scheme involving Porter. Federal authorities disclosed a text message Porter sent during a January 22, 2024, game against the Memphis Grizzlies, where he detailed plans to remove himself from the game. Porter, who pleaded guilty to wire fraud conspiracy in July, was banned from the NBA for life and faces up to 20 years in prison when sentenced on May 20. Court documents obtained by USA TODAY Sports reveal that during the game, Porter sustained an eye injury and texted the alleged co-conspirators: “I went back to the locker room to get eye checked on. Idk if imma play much more. I’m Not starting second half. But if it’s garbage time I will shoot a million shots.” In another text, dated January 26, one of Porter’s alleged co-conspirators forwarded a message from him to Hennen. The text read: “Hit unders for the big numbers. No blocks no steals. I’m going to play first 2-3 minute stint off the bench then when I get subbed out tell them my eye killing me again.” While the complaint refers to Porter as “NBA Player 1,” details of his guilty plea confirm his identity. Authorities also claim Hennen received insider information about a March 20 game in which Porter was expected to pull himself out of play.