Shawn Kemp Pleads Guilty to Second-Degree Assault in Shooting Case

TACOMA, Wash. — Former Seattle SuperSonics star Shawn Kemp pleaded guilty Tuesday to second-degree assault related to a shooting incident in March 2023. The plea came just before his trial was to begin, as Kemp faced more serious charges of first-degree assault.

Kemp, 55, was initially charged after allegedly firing a weapon during a confrontation in the Tacoma Mall parking lot. He is scheduled to be sentenced on August 22 and could receive up to 10 years in prison and a $20,000 fine. According to the Pierce County Prosecutor’s Office, the plea agreement recognizes both his accountability and the self-defense elements of the case.

The March 8 altercation occurred when Kemp tracked his stolen phone to the parking lot, having been taken from his vehicle before the incident. Kemp claimed that when he confronted the occupants of an SUV regarding his phone, one of them fired at him. Kemp stated he returned fire in self-defense. However, Tacoma police reported that surveillance footage contradicted Kemp’s account, showing him retrieving a gun from his vehicle.

According to court records, prior to the shooting, Kemp had communicated via text that he was about to take drastic action related to the theft. Tacoma police confirmed that there were no injuries from the incident, although Kemp was charged with a drive-by shooting.

Kemp has experienced legal troubles over the years, including a drug possession charge in 2006. The six-time NBA All-Star, best known for his time with the SuperSonics, played 14 seasons in the league. Following his retirement, he opened a cannabis shop in Seattle’s Belltown neighborhood.

His attorney, W. Scott Boatman, emphasized Kemp’s commitment to improving his life and serving his community. “Shawn now looks forward to working with Pierce County to help troubled youth in Tacoma and other areas on issues, including gun violence,” Boatman stated.