Ben McLemore, a former NBA player, was convicted by an Oregon jury of first-degree rape, first-degree unlawful sexual penetration, and second-degree sexual abuse. He was sentenced to 100 months in prison. His formerly bright basketball career has taken a sudden and unsettling turn with the sentencing.
The Case and the Court’s Decision
Event: The accusations are related to an event that happened on October 3, 2021, during a house party in Lake Oswego, Oregon, that was thrown by McLemore’s colleague Robert Covington. Evidence provided by the prosecution showed that the 21-year-old woman was severely drunk, passed out on a couch, and woke up to discover that McLemore had sexually assaulted her.
Trial and conviction: Following a stressful 11-day trial, a Clackamas County jury acquitted McLemore on a second-degree sexual abuse count but found him guilty on three of the four charges. Judge Michael Wetzel delivered the sentence on July 9, 2025, and imposed the 100-month penalty.
The Victim’s Strong Remark
The victim gave a video statement at the sentencing court detailing the emotional toll of the ordeal:
“This has been the longest almost four years of my life… these last few years have often felt like a weight that I’ve had to drag behind me… I now understand… why so many victims hesitate or never report…”
Her brave comments were a personal example and a general reminder to those who are going through pain.
Voices from the Court
The issue of accountability was emphasized by District Attorney Scott Healy, who said the sentence “should serve as a reminder that this type of conduct will not be tolerated.”
McLemore’s lawyer advocated for a “second-look” law, arguing that his general character and chances of recovery ought to be reassessed in the future.
From the NBA to Prison
NBA career: McLemore joined the league after being selected from Kansas with the seventh overall pick in the 2013 NBA Draft. Before relocating abroad, he played for Sacramento, Memphis, Houston, Los Angeles, and Portland, averaging 9.0 points and 2.3 rebounds per game over nine seasons and 556 games.
Off-court issues: He was a part of a DUI incident in Spain in March 2024.
This decision turns him from an athlete to a convicted criminal, ending any chance of him playing in the NBA again.
Broader Implications & Conversations
DA Healy emphasized that the victim’s courage in coming forward could encourage others to share similar acts.
Public personalities and accountability: Prosecutors emphasized in court that the trial refuted ideas of celebrity immunity in sexual assault cases.
Fundamentally, the case is around the crucial legal question of consent, especially in situations where one party is incapable of giving their consent.
A Career in Ruins
McLemore’s transition from hopeful rookie to convicted felon is stark:
His more than eight-year prison term ensures a lengthy period of incarceration and abruptly ends any hopes of pursuing a career.
With the ruling now overshadowing all of his on-court achievements, his once-celebrated persona as an NBA athlete is permanently damaged.
Final Thought
A grim moment of accountability has been reached with the conclusion of Ben McLemore’s trial and sentencing. Even with well-known people, the case brings to light persistent issues with sexual violence, alcohol, and justice. This decision also serves as a sobering reminder that, when permission has failed, celebrity status does not shield the victim from the consequences as they embark on the next stage of their therapy.