Image Source: NBA – Houston Rockets
[Saba Sports News] Kevin Porter Jr. is embarking on a modest attempt to revive his basketball career by signing with Greek club PAOK, a top professional league team, for the remainder of the season. According to Shams Charania of The Athletic, this move comes after Porter’s turbulent time with the Houston Rockets. European basketball journalist Harris Stavrou has reported that Porter’s compensation from PAOK will be under $10,000, a significant decrease from his previous earnings in the NBA.
Porter, known for his volatile behavior, secured a four-year, $82.5 million extension from the Rockets in October 2022, which notably included minimal guaranteed money to safeguard the team in the event of further incidents. His troubles escalated about a year later, leading to an arrest in September 2023 on charges of allegedly strangling his WNBA player girlfriend.
Following the incident, the Rockets traded him to the Oklahoma City Thunder, who then waived him, significantly reducing his earnings to the small guaranteed portion of his contract.
In January, the 23-year-old Porter negotiated a plea deal, avoiding jail by pleading guilty to misdemeanor assault and harassment, along with being mandated to participate in an Abusive Partner Intervention Program among other court stipulations.
Since then, no NBA team has picked up Porter, prompting his move to PAOK. Last season, Porter averaged 19.2 points, 5.3 rebounds, and 5.7 assists per game with the Rockets. He now hopes his stint with PAOK will serve as a launchpad for a return to the NBA.