Former NBA Guard Ben McLemore Convicted of First-Degree Rape, Unlawful Penetration, and Sexual Abuse in Oregon…see more…
PORTLAND, OREGON — Former NBA player Ben McLemore has been found guilty on multiple felony counts, including first-degree rape, following a high-profile trial in Clackamas County, Oregon. The jury delivered the verdict on Wednesday afternoon after deliberating for nearly two days, concluding a case that has rocked the basketball community and shed light on disturbing events that unfolded at a private party nearly four years ago.
McLemore, 31, who played for several NBA teams including the Sacramento Kings, Houston Rockets, and Portland Trail Blazers, was convicted of raping a 21-year-old woman who prosecutors say was incapacitated and unable to consent during a 2021 house party in West Linn, a suburb south of Portland. He was also found guilty of unlawful sexual penetration and two counts of first-degree sexual abuse.
The Incident and Trial
According to court documents and testimony, the incident occurred in July 2021 during a late-night gathering attended by current and former NBA players. The victim, who was not named publicly due to the nature of the crime, said she became intoxicated after consuming alcohol offered at the party and awoke in a bedroom with McLemore on top of her.
Prosecutors argued that the woman was in no condition to consent to any sexual activity and emphasized that McLemore took advantage of her vulnerability. The case hinged on forensic evidence, witness accounts, and the victim’s testimony, which described feeling powerless and disoriented during the assault.
Clackamas County Deputy District Attorney Rachel Chittick said in her closing arguments that the victim “trusted the people she was with, and that trust was horrifically violated by Mr. McLemore.”
Defense attorneys for McLemore tried to discredit the victim’s account, suggesting the encounter was consensual and highlighting inconsistencies in the timeline. However, the jury found the state’s evidence compelling and ruled against McLemore on all four charges.
Community and NBA Reaction
The verdict sent shockwaves through the NBA community, particularly in Portland, where McLemore played during the 2021–2022 season. The Trail Blazers organization released a brief statement following the conviction:
> “We are deeply disturbed by the allegations and outcome of the trial involving former player Ben McLemore. Our thoughts are with the survivor as she seeks justice and healing.”
NBA Commissioner Adam Silver also addressed the case during a Summer League media availability in Las Vegas.
> “We stand firmly against all forms of sexual violence. The league supports survivors and applauds those who have the courage to come forward. While Mr. McLemore has not been affiliated with the league for some time, we believe accountability is essential regardless of status or profession.”
The Victim Speaks
Following the verdict, the victim released a written statement through the district attorney’s office expressing relief and gratitude.
> “I have waited a long time for this day. This process has been incredibly painful, but I came forward because I knew what happened to me was wrong. I hope this verdict helps other survivors find the strength to speak up. You are not alone.”
Advocacy groups such as RAINN (Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network) and the Oregon Coalition Against Domestic & Sexual Violence praised the conviction, noting the difficulties survivors face when going up against powerful individuals in the justice system.
> “This sends an important message that no one is above the law, no matter how famous or celebrated they are,” said Amanda Blevins, an attorney with the Oregon Victims Legal Assistance Academy.
Sentencing and Potential Prison Time
McLemore is scheduled to be sentenced on August 8, 2025. Under Oregon law, a first-degree rape conviction carries a mandatory minimum prison sentence of 8 years and 4 months. Given the multiple convictions and aggravating circumstances—such as the victim’s incapacitation—prosecutors are expected to push for a significantly longer sentence.
Legal experts say McLemore could face upwards of 15 to 20 years in prison, depending on how Judge Thomas Radcliffe weighs the evidence and victim impact statements during sentencing.
A Career in Ruins
Ben McLemore was once a promising college standout who starred at the University of Kansas before being selected 7th overall in the 2013 NBA Draft by the Sacramento Kings. Known for his athleticism and three-point shooting, McLemore had an up-and-down NBA career marked by short stints with several teams, including the Kings, Grizzlies, Rockets, Lakers, and Trail Blazers.
His most productive season came in 2017–2018 with the Memphis Grizzlies, and he last appeared in the NBA during the 2021–2022 season with Portland. He played professionally overseas afterward, including a stint in China.
The conviction effectively ends any hope of an NBA comeback and leaves his professional legacy in disgrace.
A Larger Conversation
The McLemore case joins a growing list of high-profile athletes facing serious criminal charges, prompting renewed discussion about accountability in sports. Critics say leagues and teams often ignore off-court behavior if a player is contributing on the court.
> “This case illustrates the need for stronger vetting, intervention programs, and survivor-centered policies in professional sports,” said Dr. LaTonya Carrington, a sociologist at Oregon State University who studies athlete culture and criminal behavior.
Others argue the NBA has taken steps in recent years to hold players accountable and partner with advocacy groups, but incidents like this show how much work remains.
What’s Next?
With sentencing approaching, all eyes will be on how the court handles a case that has stirred intense public reaction. McLemore, who has remained in custody since his arrest last year, did not comment publicly following the verdict. His legal team has indicated plans to appeal.
For now, the Clackamas County courtroom stands as a place where one survivor found justice—and where a former athlete’s fall from grace was finalized.
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