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Zion Williamson Faces Civil Lawsuit Alleging Rape and Prolonged Abuse

Williamson’s team is gearing up to file defamation counterclaims ahead of a trial date

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA - APRIL 13: Zion Williamson #1 of the New Orleans Pelicans sits on the bench during the first half of a game against the Oklahoma City Thunder at Smoothie King Center on April 13, 2025 in New Orleans, Louisiana. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Tyler Kaufman/Getty Images)
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Overview

  • Jane Doe filed the suit May 29 in Los Angeles Superior Court, accusing Williamson of rape and a five-year pattern of abuse spanning California, Louisiana and Texas.
  • The complaint details two alleged rapes in a 2020 Beverly Hills rental and describes violent acts such as strangulation, suffocation and threats involving a loaded firearm.
  • Williamson’s attorney, Michael Balascio, calls the allegations “categorically false and reckless” and contends the relationship was consensual and financially motivated.
  • The lawsuit seeks unspecified compensatory and punitive damages for severe emotional distress, anxiety, depression and physical injuries, with plaintiff’s lawyers planning to present the case to a jury.
  • Williamson’s team says he reported an extortion attempt to law enforcement and that an arrest warrant has been issued against the plaintiff.