Former NBA Lottery Pick Breaks Silence on Rape Charges

Former NBA player Ben McLemore released a statement

Former NBA lottery pick Ben McLemore is facing several different sex crime charges. In a recent article, ESPN's Baxter Holmes revealed the charges against McLemore, writing the following:

"McLemore, 31, hasn't played in the NBA since 2022, and he was in recent days playing professionally in Spain," Holmes write. "He was arrested at Portland International Airport on an outstanding felony warrant for one charge of first-degree rape, one charge of first-degree unlawful sexual penetration and two charges of second-degree sexual abuse, according to police from Lake Oswego, Oregon."

A statement from McLemore, shared on X by Shams Charania of The Athletic, read the following:

"The charges I was handed in court yesterday appear to allege that in 2021 I had sex with a woman who was too intoxicated to consent. I am not accused of using physical force to rape someone. Rather, I am accused of engaging in sexual activity with someone who now claims she did not consent. I did not rape this woman. I am not sexually abusive. I have never pursued a sexual relationship when I understood the woman was not interested in me and acting willingly."

On the allegations and the investigation, McLemore added, "The allegation dates back to October of 2021, during a time I played in Portland. It will take some time for us to uncover the facts. At this time, the prosecution has not provided my attorneys with any reports or evidence. My attorneys and I cooperated fully with the investigation. I met every request they made of me, immediately and professionally. I indicated that I was interested in testifying in the grand jury but was refused that opportunity. When my attorneys were informed of the charges, we immediately made plans for me to return to the United States for the first court appearance - and informed all law enforcement authorities and the Court of my travel plan. I could not have done more to assist in the process."

McLemore concluded his statement, writing, "The truth will come to light. I am confident we will prevail and my name will be cleared. Thank you all for your support. I appreciate all of you and am confident this will turn out as it should."

McLemore was drafted 7th overall by the Sacramento Kings in 2013, and played nine seasons in the NBA, spending time with Memphis Grizzlies, Houston Rockets, Los Angeles Lakers, and Portland Trail Blazers.

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