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The former sports psychologist for the San Antonio Spurs alleges NBA star Josh Primo exposed himself to her during their first session and claims her concerns went unanswered. Dr. Hillary Cauthen has hired high-profile attorney Tony Buzbee and a lawsuit has been filed against Primo and the Spurs.
The Spurs waived Primo last week and today reacted to the allegations. “We disagree with the accuracy of facts, details and timeline presented today. While we would like to share more information, we will allow the legal process to play out," said Spurs Sports & Entertainment CEO RC Buford. "Our organization remains committed to upholding the highest standards and will continue to live by our values and culture.”
Primo's attorney was quick to respond to the allegations. "Josh Primo is a 19-year-old NBA player who has suffered a lifetime of trauma and challenges. He is now being victimized by his former team appointed sports psychologist, who is playing to ugly stereotypes and racially charged fears for her own financial benefit. In an act of betrayal against her young client, Dr. Cauthen, who is 40 years old, falsely claims Josh Primo exposed himself to her during the course of her numerous therapy sessions," said William J. Briggs, II. "Cauthen’s allegations are either a complete fabrication, a gross embellishment or utter fantasy. Josh Primo never intentionally exposed himself to her or anyone else and was not even aware that his private parts were visible outside of his workout shorts. What makes the allegations even less credible is that Dr. Cauthen never informed her patient of the purported exposure. Dr. Cauthen was Mr. Primo’s mental health support provider and confidant; a therapist who Mr. Primo trusted. She is much older than Mr. Primo, with many years of experience as a sports psychologist. It is baffling why she did not bother to tell her patient that his private parts were visible underneath his shorts. Josh Primo is at the beginning of a promising career and has been devastated by these false allegations and release by the Spurs. He is in the process seeking treatment to deal with the trauma inflicted on him by Dr. Cauthen’s misleading allegations, in addition to the previous trauma he suffered as a child. He looks forward to clearing his name and to moving forward with his NBA career."
The team waived Primo last week, but has not commented about the accusations.