Terrence Shannon Jr. Found Not Guilty of Rape, Receives Support from LeBron James

Potential NBA lottery pick Terrence Shannon Jr. has been found not guilty of rape charges by a jury in Douglas County. The former Illinois star received public support from LeBron James following the verdict.

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Terrence Shannon Jr. Found Not Guilty of Rape, Receives Support from LeBron James

**Terrence Shannon Jr., a highly-regarded prospect projected as a potential lottery pick in the upcoming NBA Draft, has been cleared of rape charges by a jury in Douglas County.** The former Illinois star was accused of pulling a woman towards him, putting his hands under her skirt, and touching her sexually during a visit to Kansas for an Illinois-Kansas football game in September 2023.

After less than two hours of deliberation, the jury rendered a not-guilty verdict on Thursday night, bringing to an end a highly publicized case that had cast a shadow over Shannon's promising basketball career.

Terrence Shannon Jr. Found Not Guilty of Rape, Receives Support from LeBron James

Following the verdict, LeBron James took to social media to express his support for Shannon, writing on X, formerly Twitter: "To my Young [king] Terrance Shannon Jr! Love and Salute you! Proud of you!! God is Good!"

James's message highlighted the public support Shannon has received amid the allegations, which included a six-game suspension from the Illinois basketball team before a federal judge reinstated him, ruling that his civil rights had been violated.

Terrence Shannon Jr. Found Not Guilty of Rape, Receives Support from LeBron James

During the trial, Shannon testified that he had only a few drinks at a bar on September 8, 2023, and that he remembered everything that happened that night. He stated that he did not learn of the rape allegation until several weeks later and that he had never seen the 18-year-old woman who had accused him until the case had begun.

The accuser, on the other hand, claimed that the bar was so crowded that she felt trapped and unable to resist.

Shannon's acquittal marks a significant victory for the 6-foot-6 guard, who averaged 23 points last season for Illinois, leading them to the Elite Eight of the NCAA Tournament. He was named first-team All-Big Ten and third-team All-American last season.

Shannon transferred to Illinois from Texas Tech prior to the 2021-22 season and quickly established himself as a key player for the Illini. His versatility and athleticism have made him an intriguing prospect for NBA teams, and his not-guilty verdict clears the way for him to pursue his professional basketball aspirations without the burden of criminal charges.

**Shannon's case has also brought attention to the complexities of sexual assault allegations and the importance of due process in criminal proceedings.** The false accusations that Shannon faced underscore the devastating impact that such allegations can have on individuals' lives and reputations, even if they are ultimately proven to be unfounded.

As Shannon moves forward with his career, he will undoubtedly face questions about the allegations that were made against him. However, his not-guilty verdict should serve as a reminder that individuals are innocent until proven guilty and that due process is essential for upholding justice in our society.