New Orleans Pelicans star forward Zion Williamson has been hit with several rape and assault allegations, ESPN reports.
According to a 12-page lawsuit filed in Los Angeles Superior Court on Thursday, the plaintiff, identified as “Jane Doe”, Williamson is accused of “sexual, physical, emotional, and financial” abuse over a multi-year relationship.
The suit alleges that Williamson repeatedly raped the plantiff, “hit and kicked her and made her fear for her life in several instances, before the relationship ended in June 2023.” Additionally, she accused him of stalking her, falsely imprisoning her, and threatening to kill her, and Williamson had a pattern of “abusive, controlling, and threatening behavior” throughout their relationship.
The plaintiff is seeking an unspecified amount in damages from Williamson.
In a statement issued through his attorneys, Williamson has vehemently denied each allegation.
“The allegations contained in the complaint are categorically false and reckless,” Williamson’s legal team’s statement read.
“While these allegations are false, we recognize the seriousness of the claims and welcome the opportunity to prove the truth in court,” the statement continued. “We are confident that the legal process will expose the truth and fully vindicate Mr. Williamson.”
Sam Taylor II, the plaintiff’s lawyer who is with the Lanier Law Firm in Los Angeles, said they would be “very cautious about litigating this in the press.”
“This is a very serious case as reflected in the allegations in the complaint, which are pretty detailed,” Taylor said. “We look forward to the day that our client can get this case to trial and let a jury decide who is credible and who is not credible.”
Last season, Williamson averaged 24.6 points per game and 7.2 rebounds for the Pelicans, but was cut short due to a back injury. During the season, he served a one-game suspension after “failing to meet team standards,” the Pelicans stated in a press release at the time. Chris Haynes reported that Williamson was late for several practices last season.
“This one-game suspension is a result of failing to meet our team standards,” David Griffin, the Pelicans’ executive vice president of basketball operations’ statement read. “His dedication to this organization is of paramount significance to us and to him. He has taken accountability for his actions and reaffirmed that commitment to the team today. I’m confident he will continue to evolve positively on and off the floor.”