Lakers' Hill releases statement following assault charges
{{#rendered}} {{/rendered}}
Los Angeles Lakers forward Jordan Hill issued a statement Monday after reportedly being charged with a third-degree felony for allegedly choking a woman.
According to the Los Angeles Times, which cited the Harris County district attorney's office in Texas, Hill was involved in a confrontation two months ago with Darlene Luna, with whom he was having a relationship.
The argument escalated, and Hill "pulled her off a sofa and dragged her toward the cell phones before throwing her against a wall. Hill then put her in a chokehold, which caused her to gasp for air, according to the complaint."
{{#rendered}} {{/rendered}}
Hill was with the Houston Rockets at the time of the February 29 incident. He was traded two weeks later for Derek Fisher and a first-round pick.
"I'm saddened to learn of the accusations that were filed against me today. At this time I cannot comment further other than to say that my attorneys are working to gather all the facts and evidence and I plan to cooperate completely with the authorities," Hill said in a statement released by the team's staff.
"I'd like to apologize to the Lakers organization and to all of their fans for the untimeliness of these accusations. I promise to keep my focus and attention on the playoffs during this time and to helping my team with another championship."
{{#rendered}} {{/rendered}}
Hill, limited by a knee injury during the regular season, played 24-plus minutes in the Lakers' first-round Game 1 win over the Nuggets on Sunday and posted 10 points and 10 rebounds.