Pelicans star Zion Williamson faces rape, abuse allegations in new lawsuit

The woman also claimed that Williamson used abusive language when she refused to be intimate with him. 

"We take these allegations with the utmost seriousness, and we unequivocally deny them. The allegations contained in the complaint are categorically false and reckless," the statement read. Williamson's attorneys added that the lawsuit is "an attempt to exploit a professional athlete driven by a financial motive rather than any legitimate grievance." 

"Mr. Williamson and the plaintiff never dated, but did maintain a consensual, casual relationship that began more than six years ago, when he was 18 years old. That relationship ended years ago. At no point during or immediately after that relationship did the plaintiff raise any concerns. Only after the friendship ended did she begin demanding millions of dollars."

According to his attorneys, Williamson reported the "extortion attempts" to law enforcement.

"We understand that an arrest warrant was issued in connection with that report, and we are prepared to provide the court with documentation that supports these facts. Mr. Williamson also intends to file counterclaims and seek significant damages for this defamatory lawsuit. While these allegations are false, we recognize the seriousness of the claims and welcome the opportunity to prove the truth in court. We are confident that the legal process will expose the truth and fully vindicate Mr. Williamson." 

Williamson, 24, was the first overall pick in the 2019 NBA Draft. Despite a career marred by a lengthy injury history, Williamson would go on to become a two-time NBA All-Star and was named to the NBA All-Rookie First Team.