Ex-NBA player Kevin Johnson won’t seek reelection as Sacramento mayor

Former Phoenix Suns star Kevin Johnson announced Wednesday he will not run for a third term as mayor of Sacramento.

Former Phoenix Suns guard Kevin Johnson announced Wednesday he will not run for a third term as mayor of Sacramento.

“After much thought and soul-searching I have decided not to run for a third term as Mayor,” Johnson said in a statement. “It was an incredibly difficult choice, but one that I feel confident about. As I’m sure there will be much speculation on this, let me proactively say that I am not leaving for another specific job or position. While there are many intriguing opportunities out there (and I'm excited to explore them) I honestly don’t know what’s next for me.”

Johnson has been the mayor since 2008, and was reelected in 2012.

In 2008, the Sacramento Bee first reported allegations that Johnson had sexually abused 16-year-old Mandi Koba in 1996, and paid her $230,000 to keep quiet. Deadspin recently published a series of articles that resuscitated the controversy, which led to ESPN delaying the premiere of its 30 for 30 film on the Sacramento Kings in which Johnson appears.

Johnson has denied the allegations and was never charged.

• DEITSCH: ESPN delays Kevin Johnson 30 for 30 documentary in light of allegations

Statement on decision not to seek reelection. pic.twitter.com/eQrxNc0y7T

— Kevin Johnson (@KJ_MayorJohnson) October 21, 2015

- Erin Flynn