Lakers great Byron Scott accused of sexually assaulting minor in 1987
Context:
Byron Scott, a former Los Angeles Lakers player and coach, faces a lawsuit from a woman alleging he sexually assaulted her in 1987 when she was 15 and he was 26. The incident allegedly took place at Campbell Hall High School during a Lakers team event, where Scott is accused of assaulting the girl in a locked janitor's closet. The lawsuit, initially filed in December 2022, was amended in May 2025 to include accusations of sexual battery and false imprisonment. Scott has denied the allegations, asserting that he believed the woman was of legal age at the time, and expressed devastation over the claims. The lawsuit also charges the high school with negligence and seeks a jury trial and $25,000 in damages, including loss of earnings and attorney fees to be paid by Scott and the school.
Dive Deeper:
Byron Scott is being accused of sexually assaulting a minor in 1987 when he was a player for the Los Angeles Lakers. The alleged victim claims Scott assaulted her in a janitor's closet at Campbell Hall High School during a Lakers event.
The lawsuit, initially filed in December 2022, was amended in May 2025, accusing Scott of sexual battery and false imprisonment. The amendment named Scott for the first time after he previously sought anonymity by being referred to as 'John Doe' in court documents.
Scott's attorney, Linda Bauermeister, stated that Scott believed the woman was over 18 at the time of the incident and that the allegations have blindsided him and his family. Scott was married at the time of the alleged assault, although he divorced in 2014.
The lawsuit also targets Campbell Hall High School, accusing officials of negligence for failing to protect the plaintiff during the event. The suit demands a jury trial and seeks $25,000 in damages, including compensation for loss of earnings and legal fees.
Byron Scott's career highlights include three championships with the Lakers and a coaching career with teams like the New Jersey Nets and the Cleveland Cavaliers. Currently, Scott continues to coach a team in the Philippines.