Oklahoma City Thunder Guard Josh Giddey Exonerated of Alleged Inappropriate Relationship with Minor
Newport Beach Police Conclude Exhaustive Investigation, Find No Evidence of Criminal Activity
NBA Continues Review of Allegations, Giddey Remains Cooperative
In a significant development that brings closure to a highly publicized investigation, Oklahoma City Thunder guard Josh Giddey has been cleared of allegations that he engaged in an inappropriate relationship with a minor. The Newport Beach, California Police Department conducted a thorough and comprehensive examination of the claims, which initially surfaced on social media, and determined that there was no evidence to substantiate any criminal activity on Giddey’s part.
The police department’s announcement on Wednesday marks the culmination of an investigation that garnered widespread attention and scrutiny. The allegations, which emerged in November 2023, alleged that Giddey had an improper relationship with a girl who was a high school junior at the time. The claims were disseminated through anonymous social media posts, which have since been deleted.
In the wake of the allegations, Giddey maintained a dignified silence, declining to comment on the matter during a press conference. His agent also declined to provide any statements. The NBA, upon learning of the allegations, promptly initiated its own investigation, signaling its commitment to upholding its standards of conduct and protecting the integrity of the league.
The Newport Beach Police Department, recognizing the gravity of the allegations and the potential impact on Giddey’s reputation and career, spared no effort in conducting a thorough and impartial investigation. The department’s findings, which were communicated in a news release, unequivocally stated that it was unable to corroborate any criminal activity related to Giddey.
This resounding exoneration serves as a vindication for Giddey, who has consistently maintained his innocence throughout the investigation. It is a testament to his character and integrity that he has emerged from this ordeal with his reputation intact.
While the police investigation has concluded, the NBA’s review of the allegations is ongoing. League spokesperson Michael Bass confirmed that the NBA is aware of the findings of the police probe and is continuing its assessment of the matter. The NBA’s investigation is expected to be thorough and comprehensive, as the league places a high priority on ensuring the integrity of the sport and protecting the well-being of all individuals involved.
Giddey, a 21-year-old rising star in the NBA, has been fully cooperative with both the police investigation and the NBA’s review. He has expressed his commitment to clearing his name and demonstrating his unwavering dedication to the sport and to his team.
As Giddey and the Oklahoma City Thunder look to move forward, they can do so with the knowledge that the allegations against him have been thoroughly investigated and found to be unsubstantiated. The team has expressed its unwavering support for Giddey throughout this challenging period, and they are confident that he will continue to be a valuable asset to the organization both on and off the court.
The conclusion of the police investigation and the ongoing NBA review bring a sense of closure to this highly publicized case. It is a reminder that allegations of this nature must be handled with the utmost care and diligence, ensuring that all parties involved are treated with respect and fairness.
In the end, the exoneration of Josh Giddey serves as a reaffirmation of the principles of justice and due process. It is a victory for truth and a testament to the resilience and integrity of an individual who faced adversity with grace and determination.
Original Article:
Newport Beach, California, police said Oklahoma City Thunder guard Josh Giddey won’t face charges following allegations he had an inappropriate relationship with a minor.
The department said it conducted a “thorough and exhaustive examination” into the claims, which The Athletic said emerged on social media, and “were unable to corroborate any criminal activity related to Mr. Giddey.” The police investigation is now closed.
“The Newport Beach Police Department is committed to ensuring that accurate information is disseminated to the public, while also ensuring the rights of all those involved,” the department said in a news release Wednesday.
The allegations against Giddey first surfaced in November. An anonymous social media user said a girl who was allegedly seen with the 21-year-old basketball player in videos and pictures was a high school junior at the time, the Associated Press reported. The post has since been deleted.
Giddey declined to comment on the allegations at a November news conference during practice, telling reporters that “for right now I don’t have anything to say.” NBC News reached out to Giddey’s agent for comment on Thursday.
The NBA had opened its own investigation into the claims. Spokesperson Michael Bass told The Associated Press on Wednesday that the league was aware of the findings in the police probe and was “continuing our review” of the allegations.
Giddey, from Melbourne, Australia, was chosen sixth overall in the 2021 draft and is the first NBA Global Academy graduate to be selected in the NBA draft, according to the league. He was named to the All-Rookie second team during the 2021-2022 season.