Michael Porter Jr., the newest addition to the Brooklyn Nets, found himself caught in a moment that was both heartfelt and humbling during his early days in New York. While walking the city streets, Porter noticed a homeless man digging through a public trash can and pulling out scraps of food, specifically what looked like leftover peanut butter and jelly sandwiches.
Moved by the man’s situation, Porter attempted to help the only way he immediately could: by offering him money.
“Man, I see a homeless dude over there, eating out of the trash. If I’ve got cash on me, I’m always going to try to help out a brother like that, man.”
But what started as an act of kindness took a turn few expected. As Porter approached the man, cash in hand, he was shooed away. Still wanting to help, the 6’10” forward discreetly placed the money near the man’s belongings or inside a pocket of a worn jacket lying beside him.
Moments later, Porter watched as the homeless man angrily removed the bills and tossed them away, rejecting the gesture altogether and waving him off once more.
The scene left Porter visibly taken aback.
“We saw him reaching into the trash can, grabbing peanut butter and jelly. That’s tough, bro. I feel bad for him.”
“Pray for that brother.” – Michael Porter Jr. as he tries to offer cash to a homeless man eating out of public trash cans.
God bless MPJ and that man🙏🏼
People have a lot of opinions on who Curious Mike is.
Talking about generosity is one thing, practicing it another. He tried! pic.twitter.com/AJMC8ZWs0W
— Cam (@packdrip) July 31, 2025
The encounter, caught on video, quickly began circulating on social media, sparking conversations about mental health, dignity, and the complexities of street life. Many praised Porter for his willingness to help, while others noted how unpredictable and delicate interactions with the homeless can be, especially in a city like New York.
Porter is still adjusting to life on the East Coast following his trade from the Denver Nuggets to the Brooklyn Nets earlier this summer. While he’s expected to take on a bigger offensive role in Brooklyn, his transition has been under the spotlight for more than just basketball.
A recent viral story from Taiwan involving a rumored hotel stay with transgender model Xiao A La has added another layer to the public intrigue surrounding the 27-year-old. However, Porter has remained silent on that matter, focusing instead on his offseason preparation and building chemistry with his new teammates.
Despite the awkward nature of the incident, Porter’s gesture revealed a side of him rarely seen in headlines. Known for his scoring and athleticism, this was a moment that showed empathy and human concern, even if it wasn’t received the way he hoped.
In a city that rarely pauses, Porter took a moment to try to do good. Sometimes, that’s all one can do. And for Porter, this interaction may serve as an early lesson in his New York journey: in a city full of noise, not every act of kindness lands, but it still matters.
