Once known for a nearly unstoppable crossover dribble and highlight reel dunks, the latter parts of Steve Francis’ pro basketball career have been a major disappointment. Once known as “The Franchise” coming out of the University of Maryland, Francis was an named co Rookie of the Year (2000) and named an All Star in 3 of his first 5 seasons before the injuries and bad behavior sidetracked a once promising career.
Ever since his exile from the NBA in 2008, the last we’ve heard concerning Francis was in early 2011, when he was cut from the Shougang Beijing Ducks of the CBA after only 6 games for flipping off a referee and refusing to practice on Christmas. Yes, apparently Allen Iverson isn’t the only one who has a problem with practice.
Steve is again in the news for something unsavory as TMZ is reporting that Francis is being accused by a woman back in 2010 of groping her during a private meeting concerning a recording contract. The woman’s name is Shauna Simien, who is a 20 year old aspiring singer who was signed to Francis recording label when the alleged incident happened.
Per Simien, Francis put his hand between her legs during a conversation outside of the office. She then screamed for help from some accompanying friends who helped break up the confrontation.
No official charges have yet to be filed but the case remains open one year later. Simien reportedly is considering filing a lawsuit against the District Attorney’s office for such a long delay in arresting Francis.
Considering the length of time since the alleged incident, it appears on the surface that this may be another case of someone trying to extort a professional athlete for monetary compensation. Francis has proven to be anything but a model citizen over his playing career but the alleged sexual assault is serious offense and I hope this incident isn’t the last thing we hear about the former NBA All Star.
Steve Francis’ Career Highlights:
Allen Moll has been a lifelong NBA and NCAA College Basketball fan who watches and studies games religiously, and coaches youth basketball in his native Lehigh Valley region of Pennsylvania. Allen also provides content to Bleacherreport.com, Upperdeckblog.com, in addition to being a tenured NBA and NCAA columnist for TheHoopDoctors.com.
