NBA Moves Fast on Mascot Shove, Not Abuse Claims — Sofia Jamora’s Attorney Slams Jaxson Hayes Suspension
The attorney who represented Jaxson Hayes’ ex-girlfriend in a domestic violence lawsuit is sharply criticizing the NBA after the league moved quickly to suspend the Lakers big man for shoving a mascot — arguing the response exposes a troubling double standard in how the league enforces discipline.
Hayes received a one-game suspension for his Jan. 30 run-in with the Washington Wizards’ mascot, and attorney Waukeen McCoy tells TMZ Sports the speed of that punishment stands in stark contrast to how the NBA has handled far more serious allegations involving women.
“They gave him a one-game suspension — that’s ridiculous,” McCoy said.
McCoy said he believes the league acted swiftly because the mascot incident was “a public embarrassment” to the NBA’s brand, sending what he views as a clear message about priorities when misconduct doesn’t happen on the court.
“If it’s a woman, they drag their feet,” he added.
Hayes has not faced documented NBA discipline related to domestic violence allegations raised by Sofia Jamora in 2021, when police responded to his home following a reported domestic disturbance.
Hayes has not faced documented NBA discipline over domestic violence allegations raised by Sofia Jamora in 2021, after police responded to a reported disturbance at his home.
When officers arrived, Hayes became involved in a physical altercation with police and was tased as they attempted to restrain him. The LAPD later opened an investigation into possible excessive use of force.
Jamora sued Hayes in March 2022, alleging he became physical with her on multiple occasions during their relationship, including the night police were called.
Video obtained from the July 2021 incident shows Hayes pushing Jamora and spitting in her direction.
The NBA later reopened its investigation after the footage surfaced, but no disciplinary action was announced.
The lawsuit was dismissed in June 2025, with McCoy saying it was “settled amicably.” He added that Jamora will “always stand up for the rights of women.”
Hayes served his one-game suspension during Thursday night’s game against the Philadelphia 76ers.
