TMZ has reported that the Oklahoma City Thunder guard Josh Giddey will not face charges following a police investigation into allegations of an inappropriate relationship with an underage girl. The situation has been among the top NBA stories since, and he still gets booed in rival venues.
Giddey, 21, was at the center of the controversy after social media posts, including videos and photos, suggested he was involved with a girl reportedly in her junior year of high school.
Throughout the investigation, Giddey maintained silence on the matter, opting not to comment when approached by reporters. He continued to play for his team without any absences related to these allegations.
“I understand the question, obviously, but no further comment right now,” Giddey said.
NBA NEWS & RUMORS: Josh Giddey, Oklahoma City Thunder Updates
The investigation faced hurdles as the girl involved and her family chose not to cooperate with the authorities. With no supporting evidence found, the Newport Beach (CA) Police Department has officially closed the case.
“After a thorough and exhaustive examination, we have completed our investigation into information that was circulating on social media involving Josh Giddey,” Newport Police said in a statement on Wednesday night. “Our detectives have reviewed all of the available information and were unable to corroborate any criminal activity related to Mr. Giddey.”
NBA NEWS & RUMORS: Josh Giddey, Oklahoma City Thunder Updates
The NBA initially began looking into the accusations but stepped aside to allow the police to conduct their formal investigation. NBA Commissioner Adam Silver stated that the league would take a “backseat” and let the police handle the inquiry.
“I can’t think of many circumstances where we’ve suspended a player based on an allegation alone,” NBA commissioner Adam Silver told ESPN’s “NBA Today” in December.
Giddey, now in his third season in the NBA, was the sixth overall pick in the 2021 NBA Draft. Before joining the NBA, he played a season with the Adelaide 36ers in Australia’s NBL.
