NBA: Philadelphia 76ers at Oklahoma City Thunder
The NBA is not the only organization looking into this, police in Newport Beach, Calif., have opened an “active investigation” into an alleged inappropriate relationship between the Thunder’s Josh Giddey and a minor.
Newport Beach police released a statement saying the investigation is ongoing as they seek more information.
Statement from the Newport Beach police department on the “active investigation” into allegations about an improper relationship between Thunder guard Josh Giddey and a minor girl. Police are “actively seeking additional information.” pic.twitter.com/2HciDAHppT
— Tim MacMahon (@espn_macmahon) November 29, 2023
That investigation may be slowed because the minor allegedly involved and her family are not cooperating with police (and, we can assume the NBA), reports TMZ. Said minor is not accused of a crime and is under no legal obligation to cooperate with investigators.
Allegations surfaced on social media in recent weeks of Giddey having an inappropriate relationship with a girl said to be a high school junior. The original social media posts were taken down as this situation garnered attention. Giddey, 21, and Oklahoma City coach Mark Daigneault, have declined to comment on the situation.
Under the terms of the Collective Bargaining Agreement, the NBA would have little to no course of action if their own or the police investigation doesn’t turn up evidence of a crime (the league has to wait for the criminal investigation to play out before it can take any steps).
Giddey has remained on the active roster and part of the rotation while the investigation is ongoing, although he was booed by fans in Minnesota after the news got out. For the season, Giddey is averaging 12 points, 5.8 rebounds and 4.5 assists a night for the Thunder.
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