Shaquille O’Neal is a strong opposer of betting on sporting events. Especially if it involves a player using his position to help bettors make money. Therefore, when talking about Jontay Porter , the Hall of Fame big man had suggested a series of punishments for the Toronto Raptors forward.
Speaking on his podcast, The Big Podcast with Shaq, host Adam Lefkoe asked the 4-time champion what his reaction would be if this was one of his teammates. He did sound quite serious about it.
I'd have to punch him in his face! There can't be no conversation. You messed your money, you messed up your families money, and now you got some people looking at us. Shaquille O’Neal said
To this, Lefkoe asked what Shaquille O’Neal would do had he been the commissioner.
He would have to give his whole salary back. And you got 30 days. You got 450K to pay back the league back, plus whatever the person made, you got 30 days. You don't get that done, you're banned from all leagues. Shaquille O’Neal added
O’Neal suggested that the punishment has to be so harsh that it will strike fear into the hearts of other athletes. In Porter’s case, O’Neal would prefer Porter to pay back whatever he has earned in salary as well as whatever the bettor won by betting on props involving him. Also banning him from all basketball leagues would be the ultimate punishment. Anybody associated with the NBA in any way are not allowed to bet.
The former NBA Finals MVP was dumbfounded how a player who was barely breaking into the league could resort to such an act. After all, this was Jontay Porter’s second stint in the league, with a team helmed by his former coach.
Betting in the NBA getting increasing scrutiny
Ever since the NBA legalized betting, there have been increasing conversations about ethics and staying true to the game. The teams have welcomed the decision as it helps them add another revenue stream. The league has collaborated with several betting companies to ensure that the bets are placed with full transparency.
However, players and coaches have come out to condemn the decision. Some players have talked about how fans try to convince them if they had a parlay running. Coaches have also talked about how fans try to argue with them about coaching decisions while on the court.
All of this has certainly brought the question forward as to whether betting is helping or hindering the sport. If more and more cases come out, the league might have to take a tough decision, as the future of the league will come into question.
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