SuperSonics legend Shawn Kemp faces sentencing for assault in Tacoma mall shooting case

Shawn Kemp, the former NBA All-Star, faces sentencing after pleading guilty to second-degree assault related to a shooting at the Tacoma Mall in March 2023. Prosecutors claim he acted recklessly while attempting to retrieve stolen property from two men, seeking a nine-month county jail sentence. Kemp's defense argues he poses no threat to public safety, noting his cooperation with police and lack of prior violent crime charges. His business partner expressed concern over possible community outrage should Kemp receive jail time, highlighting Kemp's positive reputation and community engagement. The court documents specify that Kemp's plea deal includes a standard sentencing range of three to nine months, alongside a year of community supervision.

This incident marks a significant turn in Kemp's life, who has transitioned into a cannabis entrepreneur after his basketball career. Following sentencing, he will be prohibited from owning firearms or possessing ammunition. Kemp's previous arrests for drug offenses further complicate the implications of his current conviction on his business endeavors.