- The former NBA first-round pick last played in the league with Portland in 2022.
- He faces charges of rape and sexual offenses after being arrested earlier this week.
- DailyMail.com provides the latest international sports news.
Former NBA star Ben McLemore released a statement after being arrested earlier this week on first-degree rape and other charges.
McLemore was arrested Tuesday in Oregon and was scheduled to appear in court Wednesday.
McLemore faces charges of first-degree rape, first-degree unlawful sexual penetration and second-degree sexual abuse, according to the Clackamas County Sheriff’s Office. website says.
“The charges presented to me in court yesterday appear to allege that in 2021 I had sexual relations with a woman who was too intoxicated to consent,” McLemore’s statement begins.
‘I am not accused of using physical force to rape someone. “Rather, I am accused of engaging in sexual activity with someone who I now claim did not consent,” McLemore continues.
Ben McLemore last appeared in the NBA in 2022, for the Portland Trail Blazers
McLemore, seen at 2022 Summer League game, faces first-degree rape charge
‘I did not rape this woman. I am not sexually abusive. I have never sought a sexual relationship when I understood that the woman was not interested in me and she acted willingly.’
‘The allegation dates back to October 2021, during a time I played in Portland. It will take us some time to discover the facts. At this time, the prosecution has not provided my attorneys with any evidence report.
‘My lawyers and I are cooperating fully with the investigation. I fulfilled every request they made to me, immediately and professionally. I indicated that I was interested in testifying before the grand jury but was denied that opportunity.
‘When my attorneys were informed of the charges, we immediately made plans for me to return to the United States for my first court appearance, and we informed all law enforcement authorities and the Court of my travel plan. I couldn’t have done more to help the process.
‘The truth will come to light. I am confident that we will prevail and my name will be cleared.”
‘Thank you for all your support. “I appreciate you all 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 with the Trail Blazers in 2022 and also spent time with the Kings, Grizzlies, Rockets and Lakers.
McLemore was selected No. 7 overall in the 2013 NBA Draft by Sacramento.