The Lede: UW Releases Michael Porter Jr

Don’t have time to read through 1,000 words, but need some informed betting tips? Here’s a quick rundown on today’s biggest sports story, and how it impacts the way you should bet. Miss yesterday’s? See it here.

Michael Porter Jr. Granted Release from University of Washington

Michael Porter Sr., father of Porter Jr., was hired on at the University of Washington as an assistant coach last season, serving under Lorenzo Romar. Not only were the two great friends, but the move also secured the commitment of one of the nation’s top recruits: Michael Porter Jr. But after a 9-22 record, while possessing the projected first-overall pick in the 2017 NBA Draft, the Huskies decided to fire Romar and his staff.

Romar’s departure led to Porter Jr., the Naismith National High School Player of the Year, asking the school to release him from his letter-of-intent. The Huskies obliged yesterday, allowing Porter Jr. the freedom to choose a new school without any sanctions.

The Porter family are from Missouri, and Porter Sr. was just hired by the Tigers as an assistant coach. There’s not much question on where Porter Jr. will “attend school” this fall. Though Missouri may possess the future first-overall pick in the 2018 NBA Draft, I don’t foresee it resulting in much team success. Just look at how well LSU did with Ben Simmons, and Washington with Markelle Fultz last season.

I would, however, abandon any hope you may have had in the Huskies next season. Porter Jr. is not the only player Washington will be without. Sophomore forward Noah Dickerson (third on the team in scoring, and led them in rebounds) has also asked to be released, so he can pursue transfer options, and of course, Fultz will also be declaring for the NBA Draft. The cupboards are going to be pretty bare for the Huskies next season.