NBA Suspends Player Accused of Exposing Himself to Sports Psychologist
The National Basketball Association (NBA) has issued a statement announcing a four-game suspension without pay for former San Antonio Spurs player Joshua Primo due to “conduct detrimental to the league.” The decision came after a comprehensive league investigation concluded that Primo had engaged in “inappropriate and offensive behaviour by exposing himself to women.”
The NBA conducted its own thorough investigation, which included consultations with relevant experts. The inquiry determined that Primo’s actions constituted inappropriate and offensive behaviour, specifically exposing himself to women. Despite Primo’s assertion that his behaviour was unintentional, the league did not find any evidence of sexual misconduct or other inappropriate actions beyond these brief exposures. Nevertheless, the NBA deemed this conduct as falling short of league standards and deserving of disciplinary action.
Primo’s association with the San Antonio Spurs came to an end in October when allegations were made against him by a former sports psychologist who was under contract with the team. The psychologist accused Primo of exposing himself to her during therapy sessions. Primo’s attorney refuted these allegations, asserting their falseness at the time.
The Bexar County Sheriff’s Office confirmed that its criminal investigations division initiated a criminal case against Primo for indecent exposure, which was filed with the district attorney’s office in May. The case is currently under review by the Bexar County District Attorney’s Office.
In November 2022, the psychologist filed a lawsuit against the San Antonio Spurs, alleging that the organization’s leadership had failed to take action despite her “numerous complaints about Primo’s improper sexual conduct.” According to her attorney, the lawsuit was settled in November.
Since his release by the Spurs, Primo has not participated in NBA games. The suspension announced by the league further underscores the commitment to maintaining professional conduct and ensuring that players adhere to league standards.
