Lawsuit Alleges Rape and Abuse by Pelicans' Zion Williamson
Zion Williamson is facing serious allegations in a lawsuit claiming years of sexual and emotional abuse.
Zion Williamson, a forward for the New Orleans Pelicans, has been accused of rape in a lawsuit filed in Los Angeles Superior Court on Thursday. The lawsuit brings forth allegations of long-term abuse that include sexual, physical, emotional, and financial mistreatment during a relationship that took place from 2018 to 2023, starting during his time at Duke University.
The plaintiff, referred to as Jane Doe, asserts that Williamson exhibited a repetitive pattern of controlling and threatening behavior throughout their relationship. According to ESPN’s report, the lawsuit outlines multiple incidents of alleged abuse occurring in various states, including Louisiana and California.
Specific accusations detail that sexual violence first occurred in a rented residence in Beverly Hills, California, where the plaintiff claims he raped her twice in Los Angeles in 2020. It is further alleged that Williamson threatened her and her family, with claims of physical violence including strangulation and being struck with a car door.
The complaint is seeking financial compensation, including punitive damages for emotional distress.
Williamson’s attorney, Michael Balascio, stated that the allegations are “categorically false and reckless,” emphasizing that no concerns were raised by the plaintiff during or shortly after the relationship. He also mentioned that Williamson plans to file a counterclaim regarding the claims of extortion.
Balascio emphasized their commitment to denying these serious allegations, labeling the lawsuit as an attempt to exploit Williamson’s status as a professional athlete for financial gain. Balascio stated, “We take these allegations with the utmost seriousness, and we unequivocally deny them.”
The attorney for the plaintiff indicated that they look forward to presenting their case before a jury in a court of law to seek justice.
Williamson, a two-time NBA All-Star and the top overall pick by the Pelicans in 2019, has struggled with injuries throughout his career, having played only 214 of 472 regular-season games since being drafted.
