Pelicans Zion Williamson Faces Los Angeles Rape, Abuse Lawsuit

New Orleans Pelicans forward Zion Williamson faces a civil lawsuit filed in Los Angeles by a woman identified as Jane Doe, alleging rape, assault, kidnapping, and a pattern of abusive behavior spanning from 2018 to 2023. The lawsuit details two specific incidents in 2020 where Williamson allegedly raped the plaintiff in his Beverly Hills rental, alongside claims of physical abuse, threats, and controlling behavior across multiple states including California, Louisiana, and Texas. Williamson and his legal team categorically deny the allegations, describing the lawsuit as a financially motivated extortion attempt and asserting that the relationship was consensual and casual, having ended years ago. His attorneys have reported the extortion claims to law enforcement and plan to file counterclaims seeking damages. The accuser seeks unspecified damages for multiple causes of action including assault, sexual battery, domestic violence, stalking, and false imprisonment. This case highlights the ongoing scrutiny faced by high-profile athletes regarding personal conduct and legal accountability.