"It obviously hurts to see that stuff" - Josh Giddey contemplates ditching social media after backlash over relationship controversy

Chicago Bulls guard Josh Giddey was embroiled in controversy last season after reports circulated that he allegedly had a relationship with a minor. While he avoided charges, according to the Australian, he has struggled to manage the ensuing online fan backlash and mockery.

In November, Giddey, then with the OKC Thunder, made headlines after images and video of him with an alleged underage girl surfaced on social media. Afterward, the Newport Beach Police Department commenced a nearly two-month-long investigation into their purported relationship.

In January, it was reported that Giddey wouldn't face charges, as the police department was "unable to corroborate any criminal activity." Nevertheless, fans ran with the allegations, turning them into an ongoing social media gag.

As Giddey continued playing last season, virtually every social media post about him sparked fan commentary about minors. According to the 22-year-old, who was traded to Chicago in June, he has struggled to deal with fans' altered perception of him. Thus, he has considered ditching social media "for good."

"I see everything, and it's hard because we're people first," Giddey told CHGO Sports in an interview published on Monday. "Obviously, we're athletes, we've got a big platform and we're viewed by millions of people around the world. But it obviously hurts to see that stuff."

However, Giddey noted that he is trying not to let the online negativity discourage him from making the most of his NBA career.

"But at the same time, you've got to look at it from a different perspective," Giddey said. "You’re living out your dream, you're in the NBA. You shouldn’t let online stuff and comments like that bother you too much.

"But it's easier said than done because we read it and we see it, and a lot of people will see 99 great things, but you remember the one bad thing you see."

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Josh Giddey embracing fresh start with Chicago after controversy-plagued third season

With last year's allegations behind him, Josh Giddey appears to be embracing a fresh start with Chicago.

Upon being acquired by the Bulls, Giddey spoke about his request to be traded to a team that could offer him a bigger role. He added that OKC general manager Sam Presti found him a "great spot."

Giddey later expressed anticipation to help Chicago compete in the 2024-25 season despite questions about the franchise's direction.

"I've just kind of bought into whatever happens here, happens, and I'll probably play my part in helping our team be as good as we can be right from the jump," Giddey said.

Giddey has started in the Bulls' first three preseason outings. So, the 6-foot-8 guard could be in store for a career year in his fourth campaign.

Across 80 appearances last season, Giddey averaged 12.3 points, 6.4 rebounds, 4.8 assists, 0.6 steals and 1.0 3-pointers per game, shooting 47.5%.

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