The sports world is reeling after a lawsuit was filed against former Los Angeles Lakers star and coach Byron Scott, accusing him of sexually assaulting a 15-year-old girl during a team event at her high school in 1987. The allegations have brought renewed attention to accountability for past actions, even decades later.
The Allegations Against Byron Scott
According to court documents, the alleged incident occurred during a visit by the Lakers to Campbell Hall High School in Los Angeles. The victim, who was attending summer classes at the time, claims Scott sexually assaulted her in a locked janitor’s closet in the school’s gymnasium.
The lawsuit accuses Scott, then 26 years old, of sexual battery and false imprisonment. Filed under a California law that temporarily allowed older cases involving underage plaintiffs to proceed, the complaint initially shielded Scott’s identity. However, a judge ruled last August that he could be publicly named, and an amended version of the lawsuit was filed on May 1.
Scott’s attorney, Linda Bauermeister, issued a statement saying her client does not deny that sexual contact occurred but insists he believed the girl was of legal age.
“Our client is devastated by this complaint,” Bauermeister said. “Our client believed the plaintiff to be over 18 and had no idea she would claim otherwise until 35 years later. He respects girls and women, and the claims have blindsided him and his family.”
The Context of the Incident
The alleged assault reportedly took place in the summer of 1987 when the Lakers visited Campbell Hall High to film an instructional basketball video. During their stay, players interacted with students, parents, and faculty members. It was during this visit that the victim says Scott lured her into the gym’s janitor’s closet before assaulting her.
At the time, Scott was married to his first wife, Anita Scott, with whom he had three children. They divorced in 2014. Scott is now remarried to Cece Gutierrez, known for her appearances on the reality show Basketball Wives .
Campbell Hall High School Also Named in Lawsuit
In addition to Scott, the lawsuit names Campbell Hall High School, accusing its officials of negligence for failing to protect the victim. The suit demands a jury trial and seeks over $25,000 in damages, including compensation for loss of earnings and attorney fees.
A message seeking comment from school officials has been sent, but no response has been received as of this writing.
Byron Scott’s Legacy in Basketball
Byron Scott’s career with the Lakers spanned much of the iconic “Showtime” era, during which he won NBA championships in 1985, 1987, and 1988. As a shooting guard, he led the team in scoring during the 1987-88 season with a career-high average of 21.7 points per game.
After retiring as a player, Scott transitioned into coaching, leading teams such as the New Jersey Nets and New Orleans Hornets. He later returned to the Lakers as head coach, mentoring young stars like Kobe Bryant. Currently, Scott is coaching in the Philippines, continuing his involvement in the sport.
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