Los Angeles Lakers forward Jaxson Hayes may soon face legal action after pushing the Washington Wizards mascot, G-Wiz, during the pregame introductions on January 30, in a game the Lakers won 142-111. The shove, which was broadcast live, drew little immediate attention but prompted the NBA to suspend Hayes for one game due to the altercation.
According to TMZ Sports, the individual inside the G-Wiz mascot costume has now considered pursuing a lawsuit against Hayes. TMZ reported that this person has retained legal counsel, notably the same attorney who represented Sofia Jamora in a domestic violence case involving Hayes.
“TMZ Sports has learned that the person behind the mask has lawyered up — and has selected the attorney that represented Sofia Jamora in her domestic violence lawsuit against Hayes,” TMZ Sports wrote.
The mascot reportedly sustained an injury from the push, though details regarding the extent of the injury remain undisclosed. Waukeen McCoy, the lawyer representing the mascot individual, indicated that they are open to settling the issue without initiating a lawsuit.
Hayes Acknowledges Apology Following Suspension
Following his one-game suspension, Jaxson Hayes spoke to reporters on February 3 and confirmed he apologized to both the Washington Wizards team and the person in the mascot suit on the night of the incident. Hayes expressed regret over his reaction during warmups, explaining the situation led to a momentary lapse in judgment.
“I obviously apologized to the team and to the mascot,” he said. “We all try to get ourselves into the mental space and physical space before we play a game. When I am stretching, and somebody steps on my foot, I might have lost it. I should have handled it in a different way. We live and we learn.”
Despite his statement, Hayes has not commented directly on the possibility of legal action by the mascot’s representative. Meanwhile, G-Wiz is expected to appear at the upcoming NBA All-Star weekend, although likely with a different person inside the costume this time.
Context on Jaxson Hayes’ Career and Current Role with Lakers
This incident is uncharacteristic for Hayes, who is known primarily for his solid but low-profile contributions to the Lakers. In his seventh NBA season, Hayes serves as a key bench player and the primary backup for starting center Deandre Ayton. He averages 6.7 points, 3.8 rebounds, and 0.6 blocks per game, boasting an impressive 77.1% shooting percentage this season.
As the Lakers manage their roster and depth chart, the distraction caused by this controversy could affect team dynamics. Fans and analysts will be watching to see how Hayes navigates this off-court issue moving forward and whether the legal matter escalates.
Jaxson Hayes said he apologized to his team and the Wizards mascot after last week’s incident that led to his suspension. Here’s his explanation of what happened: pic.twitter.com/OSDCKdloXh
— Daniel Starkand (@DStarkand) February 8, 2026
