Ex-NBA Star Shawn Kemp Pleads Guilty in Tacoma Mall Shooting Case

Former NBA star Shawn Kemp, a towering figure from the Seattle SuperSonics’ glory days, has pleaded guilty to second-degree assault in a 2023 shooting incident outside the Tacoma Mall in Washington. The 55-year-old, once a six-time All-Star known for his thunderous dunks, faced initial charges of first-degree assault and drive-by shooting, which could have landed him in far hotter water.

The incident unfolded when Kemp, claiming his property was stolen, tracked his iPhone to the mall’s parking lot. A confrontation ensued, and Kemp allegedly fired back in self-defense after being shot at. No one was injured, but video evidence raised questions about his account. Two others in the vehicle are in custody on unrelated charges.

Now, Kemp faces up to 10 years in prison and a $20,000 fine, with sentencing set for August 22. Once a key player in the 1996 NBA Finals against Michael Jordan’s Bulls, Kemp’s fall from grace is a stark reminder that even legends can stumble.