Josh Giddey hostility adds latest chapter as investigation drags on

The ongoing investigation into allegations levelled against Josh Giddey has seen him become public enemy number one for rival fans.

Josh Giddey hostility reaches new heights. Joshua Gateley/Getty Images/AFP.

The Josh Giddey hostility continued on Thursday as the Aussie star returned to the court with his Oklahoma City Thunder teammates.

In their first game since Sunday, the Thunder ventured into Houston for a clash against the Rockets.

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Giddey, who remains under investigation by Newport Beach Police Department and the NBA over allegations of an inappropriate relationship with a minor, was once again greeted with a chorus of boos.

The negativity towards the Aussie kicked off during the player introductions and carried on throughout the opening quarter.

Every time the ball found its way into the six-foot-eight guard’s hands the Houston crowd came together as one to rain down on the 21-year-old guard with Bronx cheers.

Despite the hostility he was receiving from the crowd, Giddey didn’t let it impact his on-court production as he put up a quick six points to go along with two assists and a rebound in the opening eight minutes of play.

He ultimately finished with eight points, four rebounds and six assists as the Thunder fell 110-101.

OKC guard Josh Giddey greeted by a sea of boos during his pregame introduction in Houston.

— Kelly Iko (@KellyIko) December 7, 2023

A LOT of boos for Josh Giddey during Thunder pregame intros.

— Jackson Gatlin (@JTGatlin) December 7, 2023

Giddey’s case took a recent major turn with revelations a high-profile American lawyer is now involved.

The twist comes after new details surrounding the situation emerged last week with reports the alleged encounter between Giddey and a girl happened two years ago.

The allegations first arose via an anonymous social media post last month, which has since been deleted, but the incident actually took place right back in his rookie season in 2021, as CODE Sports reports.

According to the article, Giddey had a very short relationship with the woman, with suggestions it was a one-night stand.

Giddey was 19 at the time and the report states he believed the girl was the same age, but that she was allegedly 15 and had lied about her age.

The article stated that the female’s family has remorse about the situation and the impact it is having on Giddey and his career.

The teenager’s family has reportedly been reluctant to co-operate with police. Police have not laid any charges in the matter.

Giddey in action for the Thunder. Joshua Gateley/Getty Images/AFP.

Giddey with the girl in question.

Part of the NBA investigation will reportedly centre on how the videos were leaked to social media.

Boomers star Giddey is currently in the third year of a four-year, $41m rookie contract with the Thunder.

The allegations against Giddey emerged when pictures and videos were posted to social media featuring the Australian with a young woman.

One of the images is of a shirtless Giddey standing behind the woman.

There are videos which feature Giddey supposedly talking to the girl’s brother, in which he says: “I’m here with your beautiful sister.

“Good luck for your season. I hear you’re going to Sacramento soon for a game so best of luck. We’re going to come up and watch you take care of business.”

In another video, where she appears to be standing in the background outside a nightclub, Giddey says: “What’s up my man? We’re at the front of the club, me and my girl, about to head back to mine.”

Giddey has only addressed the media once since the posts were posted to social media, stating: “I understand the question, obviously, but there is no further comment right now.”

Pushed on the matter again, he said: “I get the question guys. I completely understand you guys want to know about it. But, just for right now, I don’t have anything to say.”

Originally published as Josh Giddey hostility adds latest chapter as investigation drags on