A lawsuit filed in Los Angeles Superior Court accuses New Orleans Pelicans forward Zion Williamson of rape, abuse, and controlling behavior during a multiyear relationship that began in his freshman year at Duke. The plaintiff, identified as Jane Doe, alleges multiple instances of assault, including two rapes in 2020 in Beverly Hills, California. The lawsuit also claims that Williamson engaged in threatening behavior, stole belongings, and entered the woman's apartment without consent. While Williamson's legal team vehemently denies the accusations, the plaintiff seeks monetary damages for emotional distress, ranging from $18 million to $50 million.
Williamson, a former Duke standout drafted first overall by the Pelicans in 2019, has been a polarizing figure due to injuries impacting his career performance. Despite earning All-Star nods, injuries have limited Williamson's playing time in the NBA. The 24-year-old's contract for the upcoming season is set to become guaranteed in July, adding a layer of complexity to the legal proceedings amidst the significant allegations. The case underscores the seriousness of the allegations, with both parties gearing up for a legal battle to determine the truth behind the disturbing claims made by the plaintiff.