Former NBA lottery pick Ben McLemore faced arraignment in Clackamas County Circuit Court in Oregon on four sex charges, including first-degree rape and first-degree unlawful sexual penetration, both carrying a maximum sentence of 20 years.
He faces two counts of second-degree sexual abuse, each with a maximum sentence of five years. Due back in court on July 1, McLemore was arrested at Portland International Airport by the U.S. Marshals Service on an outstanding felony warrant related to the charges.
The allegations stem from an incident on Oct. 3, 2021, in Lake Oswego, Oregon. The victim reported the assault occurring at a house in the 1200 block of Cherry Lane, during McLemore’s tenure as a Trail Blazer. McLemore had relocated out of state during the investigation and frequently traveled abroad for work, causing delays while detectives gathered evidence.
A grand jury indictment followed testimony from the victim, leading to McLemore’s arrest warrant issued in February. The police commend the survivor’s bravery in coming forward and assure continued support throughout the process. McLemore, now 31, last played in the NBA in 2022, featuring in 64 games that season for the Trail Blazers.
McLemore, selected seventh overall by the Sacramento Kings in the 2013 NBA Draft from Kansas, spent four years with the Kings before stints with the Grizzlies, Rockets, Lakers, and Trail Blazers. Despite his once-promising basketball career, these serious legal allegations now overshadow his professional achievements.
The legal proceedings will unfold amidst the backdrop of McLemore’s diminishing NBA career, raising questions about his future in the league. His arrest and charges have undoubtedly tarnished his reputation, potentially affecting any prospective return to professional basketball.
The case highlights the complex intersection of professional sports, fame, and legal accountability, shedding light on the challenges faced by athletes navigating both public scrutiny and personal struggles. McLemore’s journey from NBA stardom to facing serious criminal charges underscores the fragility of success and the importance of accountability in all spheres of life.
As McLemore navigates the legal system, the outcome of his case will not only impact his personal future but also serve as a reminder of the broader societal conversation surrounding accountability, consent, and justice.
