Avenatti Allegedly Ripped Off NBA Star Hassan Whiteside And His Ex

Here’s more information on just why Michael Avenatti is in trouble over “his” plane.

Starr Aviation has filed a complaint against Avenatti, alleging that he took $2.5 million that was supposed to go to Alexis Gardner, who is the ex-wife or girlfriend of Miami Heat star and Gastonia native Hassan Whiteside (we haven’t been able to determine the nature of their relationship)

He apparently told Gardner that she would get monthly installments but she only got $194,000. The rest allegedly went to Avenatti’s private plane via his holding company.

Gardner is understandably trying to recover the money.

The two issued a joint statement saying that “[w]e entered into a mutually agreed upon settlement more than two years ago following the end of our relationship; a settlement that reflected Alexis’ investment of time and support over a number of years as Hassan pursued a career in the NBA.

“It is unfortunate that something that was meant to be kept private between us is now being publicly reported. We have both moved on amicably and wish nothing but the best for each other.”

If convicted of all the charges against him, Avenatti, who has alleged that Duke coach Mike Krzyzewski and former star Zion Williamson were making or taking money forbidden by the NCAA, faces up to 382 years in prison.

Among the people who believe him to be guilty is his former partner, Filippo Marchino, who is referenced in the link above.