New Orleans, LA — NBA star Zion Williamson is facing a civil lawsuit that accuses him of serious personal misconduct, including sexual assault, stalking, and domestic abuse, as per documents filed in the Los Angeles Superior Court.
The lawsuit, filed by a woman identified only as Jane Doe, claims Williamson engaged in abusive behaviour during a relationship that allegedly spanned from 2018 to 2023. The incidents reportedly took place in multiple states, including California, Louisiana, and Texas. The plaintiff is seeking a jury trial and punitive damages.
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According to court filings, the alleged abuse began when Williamson was a freshman at Duke University and included not just physical and sexual violence but also emotional and financial manipulation.
Zion Williamson’s Legal Team Denies All Allegations
In a statement released to USA TODAY Sports, Williamson’s legal team at Barrasso, Usdin, Kupperman, Freeman & Sarver stated:
“These claims are categorically false. Our client never had a romantic relationship with the plaintiff. What occurred was a brief, consensual friendship that ended years ago. Any suggestion otherwise is defamatory.”
The attorneys further claim that the plaintiff attempted to extort money, prompting Williamson to report the matter to law enforcement, resulting in an arrest warrant for the plaintiff.
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Details of the Lawsuit
The lawsuit alleges two separate assaults in September and October 2020 at a Beverly Hills residence. The plaintiff further accuses Williamson of threatening her with a firearm and filming private encounters without her consent. It’s also alleged he made threats involving her parents, claiming he knew their address and would act violently through his personal security staff.
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While the lawsuit details multiple serious allegations, Williamson’s team maintains his innocence, calling the claims “reckless and opportunistic.” They assert the relationship ended years ago and that the plaintiff raised no concerns until financial demands were unmet.
On-Court Performance Overshadowed by Off-Court Controversy
Despite his off-court issues, Williamson remains one of the league’s most promising talents. He averaged 24.6 points, 7.2 rebounds, and 5.3 assists in the 2024-25 season, though injuries limited him to only 30 games. He is currently under a five-year, $197 million contract, with approximately $40 million set for the 2025-26 season.
For a breakdown of player performance this season, visit our NBA player stats analysis page.
His legal team expressed confidence in the court process and stated that counterclaims are being prepared in response to what they call a defamatory lawsuit.
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