Byron Scott, a renowned figure and three-time NBA champion with the Los Angeles Lakers during their iconic Showtime era, is now grappling with serious allegations.
The former head coach and legendary player has been accused of sexually assaulting a 15-year-old schoolgirl in a janitor’s closet, according to a report by the Daily Mail. The alleged incident reportedly took place nearly 40 years ago, during the summer of 1987, at Campbell Hall School, a prestigious institution in Los Angeles, California.
Hayley Dylan, who was 15 at the time, has filed a lawsuit against Scott, making serious allegations including sexual battery, sexual assault, false imprisonment, and intentional infliction of emotional distress. Although she had the choice to remain anonymous, Dylan opted to reveal her identity.
In a complicated twist to the narrative, Scott has acknowledged engaging in sexual contact with Dylan but contends he believed she was 18 at the time.
LA Lakers legend, Byron Scott admits that he had s£xual contact with a 15-year-old girl 38 years ago, but says he thought she was 18 – pic.twitter.com/YSycvlR5iI
— Elenumeji (@elenumeji) May 6, 2025
During the summer of 1987, Scott was filming an instructional basketball video at Campbell Hall School as part of a Lakers team event. Dylan reportedly attended a summer math class and was asked to stay behind after other students and parents had left the gym.
According to the lawsuit, Scott began to isolate Dylan by first having lunch with her and then offering a tour of the school. The encounter took a troubling turn when he allegedly pulled her into a janitor’s closet, locked the door, and proceeded to assault her despite her objections.
The complaint details that “Scott pushed Hayley to her knees and, against her will, pulled off her top. Scott then pulled down his shorts, exposed his erect penis, and tried to force Hayley to perform oral sex on him.” Following the alleged incident, Scott is said to have given Dylan Lakers merchandise and urged her not to discuss their encounter.
When Dylan sought a ride home, one of Scott’s teammates reportedly refused, saying, “F**k, no. I’m not putting that girl in my car.” At the time of the alleged assault, Scott was married to his first wife, Anita, a marriage that would end in divorce in 2014.
Byron Scott Speaks Out About The Sexual Assault Allegations
The allegations against Byron Scott have prompted a public response from him. He has acknowledged a sexual encounter but insists it was consensual and that he was unaware of the girl’s age.
Scott’s legal representation has also issued statements on his behalf. Attorney Linda Bauermeister commented to the Daily Mail, emphasizing that, “Our client is devastated by this complaint regarding a basketball event that took place in 1987.”
“He believed the plaintiff to be over 18 and had no idea she would claim otherwise until 35 years later. He respects girls and women, and the claims have blindsided him and his family.”
This story continues to unfold, raising significant questions about accountability and justice across decades. The legal ramifications of these allegations could have long-lasting implications for Scott’s legacy in the world of sports.
