The following article was written by Spencer Wingate.
Damien Lolar is suing J.R. Smith for an incident that happened two years ago during a scrimmage. Smith allegedly choked and punched Lolar on August 13th 2010 at the Nuggets practice facility. On the day of the incident, Lolar called Denver County Police. After investigating the case, the District Attorney decided significant evidence did not exist to pursue charges.
On January 31st 2012, Lolar, represented by the Law Office of Cornell Johnson PC, filed a lawsuit with regards to the offensive harm he experienced. In his suit, Lolar contends that Smith’s physical contact has resulted in “emotional distress, anxiety, embarrassment, humiliation, and diminished enjoyment of life.” He seeks reimbursement for medical costs, rehabilitation, and other health care expenses. Lolar is leaving it up to the court to determine the amount. The suit claims witnesses will support his testimony of the incident.
Lolar was attempting to earn a roster spot on the Nuggets team, and it seems a scrimmage became far too physical. It will be interesting to see the witnesses that have decided to step forward. Previously, Lolar had played for part of two seasons in the NBDL with the Colorado 14ers. Smith is currently playing for the Zhejiang Golden Bulls of the Chinese Basketball Association and will presumably return to the NBA after the Chinese season ends.