Former NBA star Ben McLemore issued a statement after being arrested earlier this week on first-degree rape and other charges.
McLemore was arrested on Tuesday in Oregon and was scheduled to appear in court on Wednesday.
McLemore faces charges of first-degree rape, first-degree unlawful sexual penetration and second-degree sexual abuse, the Clackamas County Sheriff’s Office website says.
‘The charges I was handed in court yesterday appear to allege that in 2021 I had sex with a woman who was too intoxicated to consent,’ the statement from McLemore begins.
‘I am not accused of using physical force to rape someone. Rather, I am accused of engaging in sexual activity with someone who now claims she did not consent,’ McLemore continues.
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Ben McLemore last appeared in the NBA in 2022, for the Portland Trail Blazers
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McLemore, seen at a 2022 Summer League game, faces a charge of first-degree rape
‘I did not rape this woman. 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.’
‘The allegation dates back to October of 2021, during a time I played in Portland. It will take some time for us to uncover the facts. At this time, the prosecution has not provided my attorneys with any reports of evidence.’
‘My attorneys and I Cooperated fully with the investigation. I met every request they made of me, immediately and professionally. 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.
‘The truth will come to light. I am confident we will prevail and my name will be cleared.’
‘Thank you all for your support. I appreciate all of you and am confident this will turn out as it should,’ McLemore’s statement concluded.
McLemore currently plays for Río Breogán in Spain.
He last played in the NBA for the Trail Blazers in 2022 and also spent time with the Kings, Grizzlies, Rockets and Lakers.
McLemore was drafted No 7 overall in the 2013 NBA Draft by Sacramento.
