James Harden Sued for Negligence in Sexual Assault Case

James Harden, the Los Angeles Clippers player, is facing a lawsuit for negligence in a case involving a sexual assault allegation against his nephew, Justice Blackburn.

The lawsuit was filed in Harris County, Texas, by Marisa Wattley, concerning an incident that allegedly occurred on New Year's Day 2023 at Harden's Houston home. According to the lawsuit, Wattley claims that Blackburn raped her while she was unconscious after he offered her a drink.

Wattley, along with her friends "Jane" and "Emily," attended Harden's party after an outing to a strip club. At Harden's "studio," Blackburn allegedly offered them a drink, after which they passed out. Wattley reports remembering Blackburn persistently calling her and then regaining consciousness during the assault.

The lawsuit accuses Harden of negligence, claiming that his security personnel prevented Wattley's friends from accessing her and falsely denied her presence at the house. Wattley is seeking damages for financial, moral, and criminal harm, holding Harden "vicariously liable" for the actions of his security personnel.

Harden's representatives declined to comment on the lawsuit, noting that there is no criminal prosecution against him.