Former NBA draft lottery pick Ben McLemore is breaking his silence following his recent arrest and charge of first-degree rape leveled against him.
The 10-year NBA veteran states that he is innocent in the face of these allegations.
McLemore was apprehended on Tuesday on a first-degree rape charge in Multnomah County, Oregon, and subsequently transferred to Clackamas County Jail the following day.
After posting bond, McLemore was released.
He addressed the accusation of sexual assault in a statement released Thursday night.
“I did not rape this woman,” the 31-year-old said. “I am not sexually abusive. I have never pursued a sexual relationship when I understood the woman was not interested in me and acting willingly.”
NBA insider Shams Charania shared the full statement on X.
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Regarding the specific allegations, police report that a woman has accused McLemore of sexually assaulting her at his residence in Lake Oswego in 2021 when he was a member of the Portland Trail Blazers.
Police stated that the investigation faced delays due to McLemore’s absence from the country while playing professional basketball in China, Greece, and Spain.
McLemore is currently facing serious charges, including one count of unlawful sexual penetration and two counts of sexual abuse, alongside the first-degree rape charge.
The former University of Kansas standout expressed frustration with the handling of the case by authorities.
“I met every request they made of me, immediately and professionally,” McLemore said.
“I indicated that I was interested in testifying in the grand jury but was refused that opportunity. When my attorneys were informed of the charges, we immediately made plans for me to return to the United States for the first court appearance — and informed all law enforcement authorities and the Court of my travel plan.”
“I could not have done more to assist in the process.”
McLemore’s bond was set at $500,000, although he was only required to post 10% of that amount.
He is anticipated to appear in court again at the start of July.
