According to The Seattle Times, Kemp must begin monitoring within two weeks, serve one year of state supervision, and complete 240 hours of community service.
Prosecutors pushed for a nine-month jail term, supervision, and restitution, but Pierce County Superior Court Judge Michael Schwartz issued a lighter sentence due to the case’s circumstances. Kemp, visibly relieved, made the sign of the cross after the ruling.
Kemp, a six-time All-Star who played for the Seattle SuperSonics from 1989 to 1997, pleaded guilty to assault in May as part of a plea deal. No injuries occurred during the March 2023 incident.
Kemp claimed self-defense, alleging he returned fire after being shot at by one of two men in a Toyota 4Runner. His defense stated the men provoked the incident by stealing his truck, cellphone, and memorabilia.
Using a tracking app, Kemp tracedhazardous waste site tracked the 4Runner to a casino parking lot, confronted the driver, and later found his phone near the Tacoma Mall, where he exchanged gunfire with a man in the vehicle, which then fled. An abandoned 4Runner was later found with an empty holster but no gun.
Kemp expressed relief after the hearing, describing the past three years as difficult. He plans to advocate against gun violence, encouraging young people to “think twice” when angry.
Around 30 supporters, including his pastor and former NFL star Marshawn Lynch, attended the hearing, with many submitting letters of support.
Kemp, known for his explosive dunks, played in the NBA from 1989 for teams including the Cleveland Cavaliers, Portland Trail Blazers, and Orlando Magic, without college basketball experience.
