Former NBA Star Shawn Kemp Pleads Guilty In 2023 Mall Shooting

Shawn Kemp, a former star in the NBA, pleaded guilty Tuesday to an assault charge after he shot at two men who were in a vehicle that was located at a mall parking lot in Washington state.

The 55-year-old Kemp put in his guilty plea for a charge of second-degree assault, doing so in Tacoma’s Pierce County Superior Court which was a part of his plea agreement, per the Prosecuting Attorney’s Office of the county. The men were inside a Toyota 4Runner, which was damaged in the shooting, as well as another vehicle. No injuries were reported in the Mar. 2023 shooting. (RELATED: Pacers Fan Allegedly Stabs Knicks Supporter During Postseason Game: REPORT)

Originally, Kemp was hit with one charge of first-degree assault with a firearm enhancement, however, the prosecution recently put in another assault charge and drive-by shooting charge, according to The Seattle Times. He could’ve received a long prison term if he was convicted.

Six-time NBA All-Star Shawn Kemp pleaded guilty on Tuesday to second-degree assault in relation to a shooting incident outside a Tacoma, Washington mall in March 2023.

Kemp pleaded guilty to firing at two men in a Toyota 4Runner. Kemp testified he had his cell phone, sports… pic.twitter.com/7NDwARDFhB

— Alkass English (@alkassenglish) May 28, 2025

In August, Kemp will receive his sentence. It’s being recommended by Deputy Prosecuting Attorney Thomas Howe that Kemp serve nine months in jail, and then be placed on Department of Corrections supervision and support for one year following his release. Howe also wants Kemp to pay restitution.

Kemp played 14 seasons in the NBA, suiting up for the Seattle SuperSonics, Cleveland Cavaliers, Portland Trail Blazers and Orlando Magic during his time in the league. He was a six-time All-Star.