The NBA has reopened its investigation into Los Angeles Lakers center Jaxson Hayes following the release of new footage depicting a 2021 incident involving Hayes and his then-girlfriend, Sofia Jamora. The video, posted by TMZ, sheds additional light on a situation that initially led to legal consequences but not NBA disciplinary action.
Incident and Initial Legal Outcomes
The newly surfaced video shows Hayes, then playing for the New Orleans Pelicans, in a heated altercation with Jamora. The confrontation appears to escalate as Hayes is seen attempting to pull Jamora out of a doorway while she repeatedly asks him to stop. Their argument continues outside, where Jamora is heard accusing Hayes of physical abuse, to which he responds dismissively before spitting in her direction.
Police responded to a domestic disturbance call in Woodland Hills, California, leading to Hayes’ arrest. In June 2022, he was sentenced to three years of probation, 450 hours of community service, and mandatory weekly domestic violence classes. Despite these legal repercussions, the NBA initially chose not to impose additional discipline.
Lakers C Jaxson Hayes, as was previously reported, was involved in an altercation w/ his then-GF Sofia Jamora in July 2021.
— michael j. babcock (@mikejbabcock) November 2, 2024
Footage has now surfaced (provided by someone close to SJ) showing the couple arguing, as Jamora pleads with Hayes to leave her home minutes before 2 AM.… pic.twitter.com/2yMd38zy0d
NBA’s Reopened Investigation
In light of the new footage, NBA spokesman Mike Bass issued a statement to ESPN confirming the league’s decision to reopen its investigation. The league’s no-tolerance stance on domestic violence makes this development particularly significant, especially as the video content reveals details not previously considered in the original investigation. Hayes’ spokesperson expressed the player’s continued willingness to cooperate with the NBA, emphasizing the steps already taken during the initial inquiry.
Additional Legal Complications
The case recently gained further complexity with a lawsuit filed on behalf of Jamora, alleging improper interactions between Hayes’ attorneys and a police officer involved in the original arrest. According to the lawsuit, the officer in question had “previously met with Hayes’s attorneys and was compensated monetarily by Hayes for unknown reasons.” Jamora’s spokesperson stated that she supports the NBA’s renewed investigation and is prepared to cooperate fully.
Lakers’ Position and Future Steps
Hayes joined the Los Angeles Lakers in 2023 on a two-year, $4.6 million contract. Lakers vice president Rob Pelinka acknowledged the past incident, explaining that the organization had evaluated Hayes’ actions and remorse before signing him. “Jaxson has been very sincere [with] his apologies,” Pelinka stated, emphasizing that Hayes has shown a commitment to personal growth.
A Lakers spokesperson confirmed the organization’s cooperation with the NBA’s renewed investigation, underscoring the importance of a thorough review process in matters concerning player conduct.
As the NBA reexamines this case, the decision could have lasting implications not only for Hayes’ career but also for the league’s approach to handling domestic violence issues among its players. This latest development brings renewed attention to how the NBA holds its athletes accountable and the broader conversation around domestic violence in professional sports.
