Sofia Jamora’s attorney blasts NBA over Jaxson Hayes suspension, alleges league treats female accusers differently

The NBA’s decision to suspend Los Angeles Lakers center Jaxson Hayes for one game has sparked criticism from the attorney who represented his former girlfriend, Sofia Jamora. The backlash intensified because the league acted swiftly after a highly visible on-court incident, while earlier domestic violence allegations never led to documented league discipline.Hayes served his suspension during the Lakers’ Feb. 5 game against the Philadelphia 76ers. The league framed the punishment as accountability for misconduct during pregame introductions.

Sofia Jamora’s attorney reacts to Jaxson Hayes' suspension

Waukeen McCoy, the attorney who represented Jamora in her domestic violence lawsuit against Hayes, questioned the league’s priorities in comments to TMZ Sports. He expressed frustration with how quickly the NBA responded to the mascot incident compared to earlier allegations.“They gave him a one-game suspension, that's ridiculous,” McCoy said.

“It's a public embarrassment to them because it's their brand,” he said, suggesting the NBA reacted because the incident played out in front of fans and cameras. He added, “If it's a woman, they drag their feet.”McCoy also stated that Jamora will “always stand up for the rights of women.”

Why did the NBA suspend Jaxson Hayes?

The NBA suspended Hayes one game without pay for pushing Washington Wizards mascot G-Wiz during pregame introductions on Jan.

30 at Capital One Arena. The incident occurred moments before the Lakers’ 142-111 win and was captured on video, prompting immediate league review.Hayes served the suspension on Feb. 5 when the Lakers hosted the 76ers at Crypto.com Arena. The league announced the punishment through Executive Vice President and Head of Basketball Operations James Jones.

Lakers head coach reacted to Jaxson Hayes' suspension

Lakers head coach JJ Redick addressed the situation after the suspension was announced, emphasizing accountability and growth.

“I mean, he made an error in judgment, and he owned up to it and apologized,” Redick said, via Dave McMenamin. “He hasn’t had a chance to apologize in front of the team yet, but hopefully this is a learning opportunity for him. I clearly saw the video.”Redick’s comments focused on moving forward, while acknowledging the seriousness of the mistake.

What happened between Jaxson Hayes and Sofia Jamora?

Hayes was accused of domestic violence by Jamora following a July 2021 incident at his home, where police responded to a domestic disturbance call. Video later obtained showed Hayes pushing Jamora and spitting in her direction (per TMZ). Jamora sued Hayes in March 2022, alleging multiple instances of physical abuse during their relationship.The lawsuit was later described as “settled amicably.” Jamora spoke publicly for the first time in November 2024, sharing her experience and urging other survivors to seek help and support.