Jontay Porter Returns to Professional Basketball: Former Toronto Raptors player Jontay Porter is set to make his professional comeback after signing with the Seattle Super Hawks in the newly relaunched United States Basketball League (USBL). The team confirmed the signing on February 25, 2026.
This move marks Porter’s first opportunity to return to competitive basketball since receiving a lifetime ban from the NBA in 2024 following a major gambling investigation.
If he takes the court when the league begins next month, it will be his first professional appearance in nearly two years.
Background: Why Porter Was Banned by the NBA
Porter’s NBA career came to an abrupt end after the league found serious violations related to sports betting.
The investigation revealed that he had:
- Intentionally limited his participation in two games
- Shared confidential health information with someone connected to a bettor before a game
- Placed 13 bets on NBA games using another person’s account
- Bet amounts ranging from $15 to $22,000
- Placed bets involving the Toronto Raptors, though not on games he played
Following the findings, the NBA issued a lifetime ban, one of the league’s strongest disciplinary actions.
His legal team later stated that Porter had been struggling with a gambling addiction. He also pleaded guilty in 2024 to conspiracy to commit wire fraud and is expected to face a multi-year prison sentence.
NBA Career Overview
Before the scandal, Porter had a short NBA career, appearing in 37 games over two seasons. He played for the Chicago Bulls and later the Toronto Raptors, primarily in a reserve role.
He also attempted to continue his career overseas, but his request to play professionally in Greece was denied.
Also see: Most Dunks by a Guard in NBA History
New Opportunity in the Relaunched USBL
The United States Basketball League is making a comeback after previously operating from 1985 to 2008. The league will restart its new season on March 6, 2026, featuring eight West Coast-based teams.
USBL 2026 Teams
| Team | Location |
|---|---|
| Seattle Super Hawks | Seattle |
| Yakima Heat | Yakima |
| Vancouver Bears | Vancouver |
| Bakersfield Majestics | Bakersfield |
| Salem Capitals | Salem |
| Lilac City Legends | Spokane Region |
| San Diego Surf | San Diego |
| Los Angeles Blue Waves | Los Angeles |
Porter’s signing with Seattle gives him a chance to rebuild his professional career and re-enter competitive basketball at a new level.
Also see: Kansas Defeats No. 5 Houston 69-56, Hands Cougars Third Consecutive Loss
Part of a Wider Integrity Focus in Basketball
Porter’s case is one of several gambling-related investigations that have raised concerns around integrity in professional basketball in recent years. The situation has led to stricter monitoring and increased awareness around betting-related risks across the sport.
His move to the USBL now represents a new chapter, both professionally and personally.
The upcoming USBL season will be closely watched as Porter attempts to restart his career after one of the most high-profile suspensions in recent basketball history.
For the Seattle Super Hawks, the signing brings attention and experience. For Porter, it offers a second chance — and the opportunity to rebuild his future on the court.
