Australian basketball figure Brian Goorjian has decried the harassment faced by NBA star Josh Giddey regarding an alleged underage relationship, labeling it the worst he’s witnessed in his 50-year career in the sport. Giddey, 21, was recently officially cleared by the Newport Beach Police Department after a six-week investigation into the matter. The Californian high school student involved refused to be interviewed, emphasizing her desire to protect her privacy.
Speaking on Channel Nine’s Today program from Dubai, Goorjian, the coach of the Boomers, expressed hope that Giddey, who plays for the Oklahoma City Thunder, can now “move forward” and expressed confidence that the young star will “come out the other side.” Goorjian, a six-time NBL championship-winning coach, commended Giddey’s handling of the situation, stating, “He is a special kid.”
Goorjian confirmed that Giddey will play an integral role in the Boomers squad leading up to the Paris Olympics. The Newport Beach Police Department, in a released statement, officially closed the case, citing the absence of corroborating evidence and reiterating their commitment to accurate information dissemination.
Throughout the investigation, Giddey continued to play for the Thunder in the NBA. The allegations first surfaced in November, and it was revealed that the incident occurred in 2021. Giddey, believing the girl was 19 when they initially met at a nightclub, reportedly ended the relationship the next day upon discovering her true age.
Addressing the allegations during a team practice session, Giddey declined to provide further comments. NBA commissioner Adam Silver stated in December that Giddey wouldn’t face suspension purely based on an allegation. Despite being cleared of any wrongdoing, Giddey lost his ambassador role for the Australian breakfast cereal Weet-Bix.