In a high-profile ruling on Wednesday, former NBA guard Ben McLemore was sentenced to 100 months—just over eight years—in an Oregon state prison. The sentence followed his conviction by a Clackamas County jury on July 3, 2025, for first‑degree rape, first‑degree unlawful sexual penetration, and second‑degree sexual abuse.
A Tumultuous Fall From Grace
The charges stem from an October 3, 2021 incident at a house party hosted by then-Portland Trail Blazers teammate Robert Covington in Lake Oswego, Oregon. The victim, a 21‑year‑old woman, testified that she lost consciousness after drinking heavily, only to awake to McLemore sexually penetrating and then having intercourse with her. Prosecutors argued she was incapacitated and unable to consent, while McLemore’s defense maintained the encounter was consensual, claiming the woman initiated sex and that both parties were intoxicated.
During the trial, Clackamas County First Assistant District Attorney Scott Healy emphasized the importance of the verdict. “Many people are often afraid to report this type of conduct for a number of reasons,” he said. “The sentence … should serve as a reminder that this type of conduct will not be tolerated.” He praised the victim’s courage and stressed the DA’s office commitment to accountability.
Emotional Weight and Legal Analysis
The victim delivered a powerful video statement at sentencing:
“This has been the longest almost four years of my life… a constant reminder of the trauma that I haven’t been able to fully work through because there was no ending in sight.”
Her remarks underscored the prolonged emotional effects of the assault and the toll of the legal process.
In contrast, McLemore’s attorney, Kristen Winemiller, urged leniency. She called for the Oregon Legislature to adopt a “second-look” provision that might reassess whether McLemore must serve the full 100‑month term. She described him as “considerate and humble” and highlighted his community contributions and remorse.
Career Cut Short and Arrest Timeline
McLemore, 32, began his NBA career after being selected seventh overall in the 2013 NBA Draft by the Sacramento Kings. His career spanned nine seasons, including stints with the Kings, Memphis, Houston, Los Angeles Lakers, and Portland Trail Blazers. Following his time in the NBA, he played internationally in China, Greece, Spain, and Turkey.
The investigation led to a grand jury indictment in February 2024, and U.S. Marshals arrested McLemore in April 2024. The trial lasted 16 days, culminating in the conviction on three of the four charges.
As McLemore begins serving his sentence, the case casts a stark light on accountability in sports and the justice system. The DA’s office hopes the ruling will empower other survivors to speak out. Meanwhile, McLemore’s defense continues to advocate for legislative reforms that could allow a new examination of his case after a defined period.