New Orleans Pelicans forward Zion Williamson is at the center of a civil lawsuit filed in Los Angeles, in which an anonymous woman—referred to as Jane Doe—accuses the NBA star of rape, domestic violence, and a pattern of abuse that she claims spanned several years. According to court documents, the woman alleges that Williamson sexually assaulted her in 2020 and that the abuse continued through 2023, including emotional manipulation, threats, stalking, and physical harm. The complaint details multiple incidents across different states and claims the woman suffered serious psychological and emotional trauma.
The plaintiff is seeking a jury trial and damages reportedly ranging between $18 million and $50 million. Her legal team, the Lanier Law Firm, has said the case will be pursued in court, not the media. Williamson, through his attorney Michael Balascio, has denied the allegations, stating that the relationship was entirely consensual and casual. His team has also accused the woman of attempting to extort money and says they have filed a police report and plan to file a counterclaim. While no criminal charges have been filed at this time, the case adds a serious off-court controversy to Williamson’s career.
Williamson, the first overall pick in the 2019 NBA Draft, has faced multiple injury setbacks throughout his time with the Pelicans but remains one of the league’s most recognizable young talents. Despite limited playing time, he has averaged strong career numbers and been selected to two All-Star Games. The Pelicans have acknowledged awareness of the lawsuit but have not commented further, citing that the legal process is ongoing and being handled by Williamson’s personal attorneys.
As both sides prepare for what could be a lengthy legal battle, the outcome of the case could have significant implications for Williamson’s career and public image. The plaintiff’s attorneys maintain that their client looks forward to presenting her case in court and sharing her story. Meanwhile, Williamson’s legal team has expressed confidence that he will be fully cleared of the accusations.
