Aussie NBA star Josh Giddey has fronted up to reporters but opted not to elaborate on images that appear to be of him, which have gone viral in recent days.
It comes as multiple reports indicated the NBA was looking into allegations Giddey had an inappropriate relationship with a minor.
The Oklahoma City Thunder guard has been central to images and footage that have emerged on social media in recent days.
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When asked about the allegations by a reporter at a Thunder media session ahead of the team’s next clash against the 76ers, Giddey said: “Yeah, I mean I understand the question obviously, but there’s no further comment right now.”
Asked again about the situation, Giddey said: “I get the question, guys, I completely understand you guys want to know about it. But just right now, I don’t have anything to say.”
Thunder coach Mark Daigneault after the Thunder’s practice session was asked whether the situation would be a distraction for Giddey and the team.
“Personal matter – and I have no comment on it. And that’ll be my answer on anything related,” Daigneault said.
Both ESPN and The Athletic reported on Saturday morning (AEDT) that the NBA was looking into the allegations.
The Thunder are scheduled to face the Philadelphia 76ers on Sunday morning (AEDT), but where Giddey will line up for the team remains unclear.
Giddey is in his third season with the Thunder after being taken with Pick 6 in the 2021 NBA draft. He’s averaged 14.6 points from his 145 games, in which he has started in all of them.
The 21-year-old was named in the 2021-22 NBA All-Rookie Second Team after being named NBL rookie of the year due to a stellar season with Adelaide 36ers.