Wizards Mascot Sues Lakers Big Jaxson Hayes For Shoving Him During Pre-Game Intros

The Washington Wizards mascot has retained legal counsel following an incident in which Los Angeles Lakers forward Jaxson Hayes shoved the costumed character during pre-game introductions on 30 January. The person behind the G-Wiz costume has enlisted Waukeen McCoy, the same San Francisco-based attorney who previously represented Sofia Jamora in her domestic violence lawsuit against Hayes.

McCoy confirmed his representation of the mascot performer, stating that legal action is anticipated. 'We will give them the opportunity to resolve the matter before taking legal action,' the attorney told TMZ Sports, adding that other parties could potentially be involved in any forthcoming lawsuit. When questioned about injuries sustained during the incident, McCoy remained circumspect, revealing only that 'he was injured.'

NBA Suspension and Hayes' Response

The National Basketball Association (NBA) suspended Hayes for one game following the altercation, a punishment he served during the Lakers' game against the Philadelphia 76ers at Crypto.com Arena. The 24-year-old forward addressed the incident during a media availability session, offering apologies to both his teammates and the mascot himself.

Hayes explained that the confrontation occurred after G-Wiz stepped on his foot during the pre-game festivities. 'We live and we learn,' the player remarked, seemingly attempting to move past the controversy. However, his explanation has done little to quell the brewing legal storm.

Attorney's History With Hayes

McCoy's involvement in this case marks his second legal battle involving the Lakers forward. The attorney successfully secured a settlement for Jamora in her domestic violence lawsuit against Hayes in June 2025, which he described as being 'settled amicably.' This prior relationship between lawyer and defendant adds an intriguing dimension to the current proceedings.

Criticism of League's Response

In the aftermath of the mascot incident, McCoy publicly criticised the NBA's handling of allegations against Hayes, drawing unfavourable comparisons between the league's swift action regarding the mascot incident and its response to domestic violence accusations. 'If it's a woman, they drag their feet,' McCoy told TMZ Sports, highlighting what he perceives as inconsistent disciplinary standards within the organisation.

The attorney's comments underscore broader concerns about how professional sports leagues address different types of misconduct, particularly when comparing violence against women to other on-court incidents.

Settlement or Court Battle Ahead

As the situation develops, all eyes will be on whether Hayes and the relevant parties can reach a settlement before formal legal proceedings commence. The involvement of McCoy, given his previous success in obtaining a settlement from Hayes, suggests the mascot performer's case may have substantial merit.

The incident has also reignited discussions about player conduct and the appropriate consequences for physical altercations, even those involving non-players. With McCoy indicating that legal action is 'anticipated' rather than merely possible, it appears increasingly likely that this matter will proceed beyond informal resolution attempts.

The Lakers organisation has yet to comment publicly on the potential lawsuit, whilst Hayes continues to play for the team as they navigate the remainder of the season. The legal proceedings could have wider implications for how leagues handle on-court conduct and the treatment of non-player personnel.