The alleged minor whom Oklahoma City Thunder guard Josh Giddey is accused of having a relationship with and her family are refusing to speak to cops who are investigating the claims, according to TMZ Sports.
TMZ Sports first reported Tuesday that Newport Beach (Calif.) police were looking into allegations which surfaced on social media last week that Giddey, a 21-year-old from Australia, was involved in a relationship with an underage girl; the age of consent in California is 18.
“The Newport Beach Police Department is aware of information being circulated online involving an alleged relationship between professional basketball player Josh Giddey and a female minor,” the Newport Beach PD said in a release. “The Newport Beach Police Department is actively seeking additional information related to these allegations and pursuing all leads and evidence to obtain the facts of the case.
“The Newport Beach Police Department aims to ensure a fair and thorough investigative process while maintaining the privacy and dignity of everyone involved. At this time, NBPD Detectives are still conducting an active investigation.”
The NBA is also investigating the claims.
Giddey, the No. 6 overall pick in the 2021 NBA Draft, declined to comment Friday on the allegations and has continued to play for the Thunder.
After receiving applause from home fans Saturday, Giddey was booed every time he touched the ball during Tuesday’s Thunder loss to the Timberwolves in Minneapolis.
Giddey had 10 points and six rebounds in the loss.
Asked about the police probe before Tuesday’s game, Thunder coach Mark Daigneault said: “I’m not gonna comment on anything as it relates to Josh off the court.”
Giddey is averaging 12 points, 5.8 rebounds and 4.5 assists in 17 games this season for the Thunder, who are 11-6.