The NBA has reopened its investigation into Los Angeles Lakers center Jaxson Hayes following newly released video footage of a 2021 domestic incident involving his former girlfriend, Sofia Jamora. This video, published by TMZ, reveals more disturbing details about the altercation, prompting the league to take a fresh look at the case. NBA spokesperson Mike Bass confirmed the decision to reopen the investigation, citing the resurfaced footage as the primary reason for revisiting the case.
The leaked TMZ footage which led to the NBA relaunching an investigation into domestic violence allegations
Jaxson Hayes and the Lakers have not released an official statement yet
— LakeShowYo (@LakeShowYo) November 3, 2024
The footage from a security camera captures several distressing moments from the incident, which took place in July 2021 when Hayes played for the New Orleans Pelicans. In the video, Hayes appears to grab Jamora and pull her from one room to another as she pleads. Hayes responds with aggressive language, showcasing his frustration.
The scene then moves outside to the driveway, where Jamora tells Hayes, “I’m not going to let you hit me anymore,” suggesting a troubling history of conflict. Hayes then pushes her and spits in her direction before re-entering the house, where he continues to lash out by breaking items and flipping furniture.
This incident led to Hayes being arrested and tased by police after he allegedly resisted arrest. Initially facing 12 charges, Hayes later pleaded no contest to resisting arrest and false imprisonment. His sentence included three years of probation, 450 hours of community service, and mandatory weekly domestic violence classes for a year. Despite the severity of the situation, the NBA did not take disciplinary action against Hayes following its first investigation. At the time, Hayes expressed remorse, and the league appeared satisfied with his commitment to accountability.
However, the release of the new footage and Jamora’s recently filed lawsuit—alleging improper conduct by an officer involved in the arrest—have intensified scrutiny. The lawsuit claims that an officer, who was involved in the incident and later met privately with Hayes’ attorneys, received compensation from Hayes for “unknown reasons,” raising questions about the case’s handling. Jamora’s spokesperson stated that she welcomes the NBA’s renewed investigation and will cooperate fully.
The Lakers, who signed Hayes to a two-year contract in 2023, are cooperating with the league’s investigation. Lakers GM Rob Pelinka, when questioned about the team’s decision to sign Hayes despite his past, emphasized that Hayes had shown sincerity in his remorse and taken responsibility for his actions.
For Hayes, who is averaging 5.0 points and 4.2 rebounds per game this season, the renewed investigation could have serious repercussions. The NBA has maintained a strict stance against domestic violence, and this new footage may compel the league to impose sanctions that were not previously applied.
The incident serves as a stark reminder of the NBA’s commitment to accountability and its no-tolerance policy on issues related to domestic violence. As the league conducts its investigation, it will have to weigh both Hayes’ efforts toward personal improvement and the severity of the allegations presented in the newly surfaced footage.
Thank you for being a valued reader of Fadeaway World. If you liked this article, please consider following us on Google News. We really appreciate your support.
