‘A smart move’: Spike O’Neill believes Shawn Kemp will evade jail time after guilty plea
May 28, 2025, 5:51 PM
Former NBA player, Shawn Kemp is seen on the field prior to a game between the Seattle Seahawks and the Buffalo Bills. (Photo: Jane Gershovich, Getty Images)
(Photo: Jane Gershovich, Getty Images)
Spike O’Neill, co-host of “The Jake and Spike Show” on KIRO Newsradio, broke down the current outlook for Shawn Kemp following his recent guilty plea to second-degree assault in a shooting outside the Tacoma Mall in 2023.
“Kemp’s looking at multiple charges and a trial with a lot of jail time in front of him if he’s found guilty of these things, and from the video, his initial account was self-defense,” Spike said. “Somebody shot at me first doesn’t hold water, I think they pled down to a second-degree assault, which is a smart move on Kemp.”
Jake Skorheim, co-host of “Jake and Spike,” outlined the massive implications the ruling will have in dealing with a high-profile athlete like Kemp.
“Tough spot for the city because you are prosecuting a local legend,” Jake said, “It’s a no-win (case), and you could put the ‘Reign Man’ behind bars.”
Jail time for Shawn Kemp?
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Jake asked for Spike’s thoughts on whether Kemp will end up serving jail time.
“I don’t think so, it depends on Kemp’s legal representation and his actions moving forward,” Spike said, “Does he show remorse? Does he admit guilt? Which he has done here.”
Spike suggested some possible community outreach opportunities that Kemp can lead after the fact.
“Use your notoriety and fame, make a public awareness campaign based on the idea that there is a better solution than using a gun,” Spike said, “Or I’ve made a lot of shots in my career, the worst ones I ever took were in that Tacoma mall parking lot, don’t do it kids.”
Listen to the full conversation below.
Listen to “The Jake and Spike Show” weekdays from noon to 3 p.m. on KIRO Newsradio 97.3 FM. Subscribe to the podcast here.
