NBA News: Former Portland Trail Blazers forward Ben McLemore made headlines for all the wrong reasons on Wednesday after it was reported that he had been arrested in Portland over rape charges that stem from his time with the Blazers.
McLemore, who now plies his trade for Spanish outfit Río Breogán of the Liga ACB, has now come out with an official statement to address his current situation.
NBA News: Ben McLemore’s Official Statement on Rape Charges
NBA insider Shams Charania posted McLeMore’s official statement via Twitter on Thursday evening:
Statement from former NBA No. 7 overall pick Ben McLemore, who is facing rape and sex crime charges in Portland: pic.twitter.com/3vHx7PreKs
— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) April 12, 2024
McLemore has not denied having sex with his accuser. It appears that his defense is that the unnamed woman gave him her consent:
“I did not rape this woman. I am not sexually abusive. I have never pursued a sexual relationship when I understand the woman was not interested in me and acted willingly,” read an excerpt from the statement.
McLemore then went on to reveal that he has been extremely cooperative with authorities since these charges came to light. This includes heading back home to the United States to face the charges in Portland. According to the 31-year-old, he “could not have done more to assist in the process.”
McLemore remains confident that the legal process will work in his favor and that his name will eventually be cleared.
McLemore, a former Kansas standout, was drafted as the No. 7 overall pick by the Sacramento Kings in 2013. He has also suited up for the Los Angeles Lakers, the Houston Rockets, and the Memphis Grizzlies in nine years in the league.
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