Woman files lawsuit against Derrick Rose; Bulls guard denies allegations

A woman filed a lawsuit accusing Bulls guard Derrick Rose of sexual assault; Rose's lawyer denied the allegations in a statement.

Chicago Bulls guard Derrick Rose, accused of sexual assault in a lawsuit filed by a woman claiming to be his ex-girlfriend, strongly denied the allegations in a statement released Wednesday by his attorney.

In the lawsuit, reported by TMZ on Wednesday, the woman alleges that in an August 2013 incident, Rose and two friends drugged and later sexually assaulted her.

Rose issued a statement on Thursday to USA Today denying the allegations.

“I am just focusing on staying healthy and getting ready for the season,” Rose said in the statement. “I am not going to comment other than to say—I know the truth, and am confident I will be proven innocent.”

Rose's lawyer said in a statement that the Bulls guard had a “non-exclusive, consensual sexual relationship” with the woman over two years, but that the accusations are “outrageous” and the lawsuit is “a desperate attempt to shake down” Rose. 

The Bulls also released a statement on Thursday:

“We just learned about this matter and do not know all the facts,” the team said. “It would be inappropriate to comment further at this time.”

Rose, a three-time All-Star, played in 51 games last season, averaging 17.7 points and 4.9 assists per game.