Sport

Shawn Kemp Enters Plea in Shooting Incident: What You Need to Know

2025-05-27

Author: Chun

In a surprising turn of events, former NBA superstar Shawn Kemp has pleaded guilty to an assault charge stemming from a shooting incident in a Tacoma mall parking lot. The 55-year-old basketball icon entered the plea in Pierce County Superior Court, facing serious legal repercussions.

On March 2023, Kemp became embroiled in a heated confrontation when he attempted to retrieve belongings stolen from his truck outside a Seattle concert venue. The altercation escalated when Kemp spotted a Toyota 4Runner tied to the incident and expressed his frustration at the driver. To his shock, one of the passengers in the vehicle fired a shot, prompting Kemp to return fire in an attempted defense.

The shooting did not injure anyone, but it did result in damage to both vehicles involved. Initially charged with first-degree assault, additional counts of assault and a drive-by shooting were later added, potentially leading to a significant prison sentence.

As part of a plea agreement, Kemp is expected to face nine months in jail, followed by one year of supervision upon release, alongside a restitution payment. His attorney, Tim Leary, emphasized that Kemp is taking responsibility and viewed the incident as a matter of self-defense.

Kemp's legal troubles began when theft struck close to home. Personal items significant to him—including jerseys meant for charity auctions—were taken from his truck during the concert. Using a tracking app, Kemp traced his stolen phone to the Tacoma area, leading him to confront the culprits.

Witness reports indicated a chaotic scene, with calls to 911 confirming that shots were exchanged. Kemp's plea comes as a relief for a case that could have spiraled into a lengthier trial thanks to the dubious credibility of witnesses involved.

This incident casts a shadow over Kemp's significant NBA legacy, where he was celebrated as a six-time All-Star and renowned for his explosive dunks. As he navigates these legal challenges, fans and supporters alike await the outcome of his sentencing in August—and hope he can turn the page towards a brighter future.