Ex‑NBA Guard Ben McLemore Convicted of Raping Incapacitated Woman

An Oregon jury has convicted former NBA player Ben McLemore, 32, of raping a 21-year-old woman who was incapacitated on October 3, 2021, during a team party at a Lake Oswego home owned by then-Teammate Robert Covington

Charges and Verdict

• McLemore was found guilty of first-degree rape, first-degree unlawful sexual penetration, and second-degree sexual abuse, though he was acquitted on one second-degree sexual abuse count
• The victim, severely intoxicated, testified she had lost consciousness on a couch and only partially regained awareness during the assault. She recalled feeling terrorized but unable to escape.

Trial Highlights

• Prosecutors presented photo evidence showing her incapacitated state—passed out and unresponsive.
• McLemore maintained the encounter was consensual, claiming the woman initiated contact; however, he admitted there was no prior conversation or mutual discussion of consent.

Next Steps

• Sentencing is set for July 9, 2025 .
• In Oregon, conviction on these charges carries a minimum of over 100 months (8+ years) and up to 20 years in prison for each Class A felony count.

Statement from the District Attorney

Clackamas County DA John Wentworth underscored the message: “Not in Clackamas County. This case demonstrates my office prosecutes criminal acts regardless of the offender’s community status.”.

McLemore’s Profile

• Drafted 7th overall in 2013 by Sacramento, McLemore had NBA stints with the Kings, Grizzlies, Rockets, Lakers, and Trail Blazers, before continuing his career overseas.
• At the time of the incident, he was playing for the Portland Trail Blazers. He has since played in China, Greece, Spain, Turkey, and most recently signed in Turkey before being arrested post‑indictment in February 2024.

Broader Impact

• The jury deliberated for about 10 hours after an 11-day trial.
• This verdict represents a grave moment in athlete accountability, highlighting that celebrity status offers no immunity when it comes to sexual violence.
• As sentencing approaches, the legal system prepares to impose a significant prison term based on mandatory sentencing guidelines under Oregon law.

This verdict marks a crucial step toward justice—not only for the victim but for reinforcing the principle that no individual, regardless of fame or wealth, is above the law. Our thoughts must be with survivors of sexual assault and the importance of due process in holding offenders accountable.