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Former NBA Player Ben McLemore Faces Rape Charges in Oregon
Former NBA player Ben McLemore made a court appearance in Clackamas County Circuit Court on Wednesday, facing charges of rape and other alleged sex crimes dating back to 2021.
An unsealed indictment revealed McLemore, who had a brief stint with the Portland Trail Blazers during the 2021-22 season and is currently not affiliated with the NBA, is accused of first-degree rape, first-degree unlawful sexual penetration, and two counts of second-degree sexual abuse.
If convicted, McLemore could be sentenced to a minimum of eight years and four months in prison.
McLemore, 31, was arrested on Tuesday by U.S. Marshals and jailed in Oregon on charges related to an alleged sexual assault in 2021 when he was with the Trail Blazers.
The charges against McLemore include one count of first-degree rape, one count of first-degree unlawful sexual penetration, and two counts of second-degree sexual abuse, as reported by Lake Oswego police.
The incident in question took place in Lake Oswego on Oct. 3, 2021, during McLemore’s tenure with the Trail Blazers.
Following his time in the NBA, McLemore pursued his basketball career internationally, playing in countries like China, Greece, and more recently in Spain.
McLemore was apprehended at Portland International Airport on an outstanding felony warrant, leading to his subsequent arrest and detention.
After a Clackamas County grand jury heard testimony, an indictment was issued against McLemore, resulting in his arraignment in Clackamas County Circuit Court on Wednesday.
Despite being initially jailed, McLemore was released on bail after posting the required amount of $50,000.
His legal team and representatives have not yet provided any statements or responses regarding the allegations.
McLemore’s next court appearance is scheduled for July 1 in Oregon.
Throughout his career, McLemore was known for being selected as the seventh overall pick in the 2013 NBA Draft after his college basketball stint with the University of Kansas.
