Michael Porter Jr., Denver Nuggets

Michael Porter Jr., a Denver Nuggets player, has undoubtedly faced a challenging and distressing week. On Wednesday, his younger brother Jontay received a lifetime ban from the NBA for violating gambling regulations, including betting against his own team, the Toronto Raptors, while on their roster this season. Just two days later, Porter’s other younger brother, Coban, was sentenced to nine years in prison for causing a fatal accident while driving under the influence.

Michael Porter Jr. opened up about his mental stress due to his family condition during a recent interview.

“Definitely tried to compartmentalize, some bad and sad stuff happened to a couple of my brothers, but I got, you know, 15, 16 more brothers in here, so I knew I had to be here for them and come in here and do my job and try to prepare to do it at a high level. To have these guys understand why I missed practice yesterday and just had my back has been big for me,” Michael Porter Jr. said during the interview.

Porter was not present at the Nuggets’ practice on Friday

Porter showcased resilience in the Nuggets’ 114-103 victory over the Los Angeles Lakers on Saturday, contributing 19 points and eight rebounds despite the weight of his family’s recent trials. After the game, he openly addressed his family’s challenges. His stat line for the night stood at 19 points, 8 rebounds, 1 steal, and 2 blocks, playing 38 minutes.

As the Los Angeles Lakers seek redemption in Game 2 on Monday following their defeat, anticipation mounts to witness their response.

Porter’s absence from the Nuggets’ Friday practice was due to his testimony at his brother’s hearing. Coban Porter, who had pleaded guilty to vehicular assault and vehicular homicide in February, awaited his sentencing.

Although plagued by back issues that marred his college and rookie seasons with the Nuggets, Porter’s perseverance shines through. Despite setbacks, including surgery in the 2021-22 season, he rebounded to play a career-high 81 games this season, contributing significantly to the defending champions’ campaign.