Shawn Kemp, the former NBA superstar once famed for his high-flying dunks and Seattle SuperSonics glory days, has finally learned the consequences of his actions in a shooting incident outside the Tacoma Mall in March 2023.
The six-time NBA All-Star, now 55, had initially pleaded not guilty to first-degree assault charges but later accepted a plea deal for second-degree assault.
The court has sentenced him to 30 days in jail, which he will be allowed to serve at home.
Court Appearance and Support from Friends
Kemp appeared in court dressed sharply in a navy jacket, tan trousers, a white shirt, and a light blue tie.
Observers described him as “stoic” as the Pierce County judge delivered the sentence.
The former basketball star was supported in court by friends, including NFL legend Marshawn Lynch.
Kemp expressed deep remorse for the incident, telling the court he was “very apologetic” for his behavior during the shooting.
Judge’s Remarks and Additional Sentences
The judge emphasized the gravity of the situation, warning, “This could have been easily avoided by simply walking away.
Property is replaceable; human life is not.”
Alongside his home detention, Kemp was also sentenced to 12 months of community custody, a form of supervised release in Washington, and 240 hours of community service.
Prosecutors had initially sought a nine-month prison term.
Details of the Shooting Incident
The incident revolved around Kemp attempting to retrieve items, including a cellphone, allegedly stolen from his car.
While Kemp claimed he returned fire in self-defense, police reports and surveillance footage painted a more complicated picture.
A probable cause statement noted that Kemp may have been armed before confronting the suspects and had sent a text message just 13 minutes prior stating, “I’m about to shoot this (expletive).”
Video evidence suggested he fired three times into a parked Toyota 4Runner and then discarded his weapon into nearby bushes. Fortunately, no one was injured.
Kemp’s NBA Legacy and Post-Basketball Ventures
Shawn Kemp made his NBA debut with the Seattle SuperSonics in the 1989-90 season as a 20-year-old who had never played college basketball.
Known for his athletic dunks and on-court energy, he went on to play for Cleveland, Portland, and Orlando.
Beyond basketball, Kemp now operates two licensed cannabis stores in Seattle, balancing his post-NBA business ventures with the challenges of this legal situation.
