NBA reopens investigation into Jaxson Haye’s domestic violence case after new video footage surfaces

In July 2021, Los Angeles police were called to the home of the then-New Orleans Pelicans center Jaxson Hayes after his then-girlfriend Sofia Jamora’s cousin called 911 during a domestic dispute. That incident ended when he got into a scuffle with officers and Police use a taser on Hayes to subdue and arrest him. Hayes was charged with 12 felonies in Los Angeles County, and he was ultimately sentenced to three years of probation, required to perform community service and take domestic violence classes.

The NBA has chosen not to suspend, fine or take disciplinary action against Hayes following the incident. Jamora, who claims this wasn’t the only time he abused her, has sued Hayes in a case that is still moving through the legal system.

The NBA has reopened its investigation into the incident after TMZ posted new security camera footage from that evening, a story that was broken by ESPN’s Dave McMenamin.

In the video, Hayes appears to pull Jamora out of a doorway as she can be heard saying, “Stop. Let me go.” Hayes can be heard replying, “What the fuck is wrong with you?”…

Hayes and Jamora then leave the home and continue their argument in the driveway. “I won’t let you hit me anymore,” Jamora can be heard saying in the video. “What the hell do I look like, a punching bag?”…

“Following the media report and video posted this morning, we are reopening our investigation,” NBA spokesman Mike Bass said in a statement to ESPN.

Hayes’ representatives said they were working with the league and noted that an extensive investigation had already been conducted. The Lakers officially said they were cooperating as well. At the time the Lakers signed Hayes, General Manager Rob Pelinka was asked about signing a player after a domestic violence charge. and on the other hand he will be a better person.”

This wouldn’t be the first time a video has surfaced to change the perception and dynamic surrounding a domestic violence case.

Hayes is in the second year of a veteran minimum contract he signed with the Lakers in the summer of 2023. This season, after coming off the bench behind Anthony Davis, he is averaging 5 points and 4.2 rebounds per game.