NBA star Zion Williamson has been accused of rape, physical abuse, and coercive behavior in a lawsuit filed by a woman identified as Jane Doe in Los Angeles County.
The lawsuit alleges two specific instances of rape, along with claims of ongoing emotional, physical, sexual, and financial abuse during a relationship that reportedly began in 2018 when Williamson was at Duke University and continued through June 2023.
The complaint states that the New Orleans Pelicans forward displayed abusive and controlling behavior, including choking, smothering, and threats against the plaintiff and her family. Williamson is also accused of preventing her from using her phone and laptop after alleged assaults, actions the plaintiff claims made her fear for her life.
Williamson’s attorneys from Usdin, Kupperman, Freeman & Sarver have strongly denied the allegations. They claim the plaintiff had a casual, consensual relationship with Williamson that ended years ago and describe the lawsuit as a financially motivated extortion attempt. The legal team stated that Williamson has already reported the extortion claims to authorities and plans to file counterclaims for defamation.
This legal development adds to a turbulent offseason for Williamson, who was recently involved in a separate controversy surrounding the mother of his child, Ahkeema Love, who was arrested for stalking and battery.
The case underscores growing scrutiny around celebrity athletes, personal conduct, and the legal and public consequences of such allegations.
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