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'Bad stuff happened to couple brothers, but I got 15 more…' Michael Porter Jr. gives amazing response to family troubles amidst playoff season

Originally posted on FirstSportz | By Nikhil Sonmali | Last updated 4/22/24

The Denver Nuggets finished the season as the second seed in the Western Conference. Their key forward, Michael Porter Jr. has been an excellent player this season. He has played 81 games this season, contributing immensely on both ends of the floor. However, MPJ’s brother, Jontay Porter , who played for the Toronto Raptors, was recently banned permanently from the NBA, as he allegedly made bets on games and passed on the information to gamblers.

On the other hand, Coban Porter , MPJ’s other sibling, was sentenced to six years in prison after he was found guilty of a drunk driving crash that killed a woman. Though Porter Jr. has kept his head up despite all the negativity, as the Nuggets prepare for the postseason.

I think definitely try to compartmentalize, you know some bad, and sad stuff happened to a couple of my brothers. But I got, you know, 15-16 more brothers in here so, I know I had to be here for them and coming here and do my job and try to prepare to do it at a higher level. said Michael Porter Jr. via Brandon Krisztal of KOA 850 AM & 94.1 FM

Credit to Michael Porter Jr. for answering questions about such a challenging week with his brother Johntay being banned from the NBA for life, and brother Coban being sentenced to 6 yrs in prison for killing a woman in a drunk-driving accident.@KOAColorado #MileHighBasketball pic.twitter.com/6UuMsZrajf
— Brandon Krisztal (@BKDenverSports) April 21, 2024

Porter Jr. has gone through a lot this past week, however, the oldest sibling in the family has managed to keep up with his game. His performance in Game 1 included 19 points and 8 rebounds on 53% shooting from the field.

Coach Malone weighs in on Michael Porter Jr.’s situation

As the Nuggets hit practice ahead of the playoffs, Michael Porter Jr. missed practice on Friday. The reason behind the same was his brother, Coban Porter’s sentencing, which Porter Jr. attended. As MPJ’s off-court situation with his brothers required his attention, coach Michael Malone had his player’s back.

It has not been easy for him. That's why I give him credit because he's carrying so much in his heart and on his mind. For him to go out there and do the job that he's doing, it speaks to how much strength that young man has. Michael Malone via CBS42.com

While one of his brothers faces a serious ban and the other a six-year sentence, Porter Jr. and his family are not exactly in a good place. The timing of the same couldn’t have been worse. MPJ has the playoff pressure on him, as the reigning champion looks to make a deep run with his team.

As they cruise with a 1-0 lead against the Lakers, Porter Jr. will look to keep his head in the game for the meanwhile. Game 2 is scheduled for the 22nd of April, as the Nuggets look to extend their lead.

This article first appeared on FirstSportz and was syndicated with permission.

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