The contentious divorce proceedings between recording artist Teyana Taylor and former NBA star Iman Shumpert have intensified, with new private messages revealed in court documents painting a picture of bitter accusations and counter-accusations. The latest development sees Taylor labeling her ex-husband a “professional victim” amidst his demands for her to pay his legal fees over alleged false claims.
Back in March, Taylor accused Shumpert of strategically leaking details from their divorce to bloggers, particularly whenever she announced a new project, in a perceived effort to steal the spotlight. However, Shumpert has vehemently denied these allegations. His legal team now claims Taylor contacted no less than 19 different entertainment news blogs, all of whom reportedly denied working with him or receiving any leaked information. On July 7, Shumpert, 35, formally requested the court compel Taylor, 34, to cover his legal expenses, arguing that her accusations were “without basis, motive, evidence or reason” and made simply to “harass.”
Shumpert’s lawyers stated in court documents, “Neither Taylor nor any of the news blogs has produced any text message, email … or any other communication or correspondence from Shumpert disclosing any of the details from the divorce.” They emphasized, “Taylor has no text messages, emails or other correspondence from Shumpert which disclose information ordered to be sealed.”
Both Taylor and Shumpert have accused each other of violating the terms of their 2024 divorce judgment. Taylor’s lawyer pushed back against Shumpert’s “victim” claims, highlighting an incident where Shumpert allegedly “ripped an iPad from the parties’ oldest child to start a venomous argument” with Taylor for no apparent reason, while Taylor was speaking with their minor children. Taylor also maintains she has attempted to co-parent effectively but believes Shumpert “for whatever reason … remains mad … for no apparent reason.” She further denied that her claims have damaged Shumpert’s reputation.
As evidence, Taylor included a series of alleged private messages exchanged with Shumpert. In one dated April 17, Taylor purportedly wrote, “Iman, you’re gonna stop disrespecting me. I’m nothing but respectful and graceful. You continue to gaslight me!!!” She continued, “You’re so bitter and clearly can’t seem to get out of your emotions! This is draining!!! You keep throwing stones and hiding your hands! YOU ARE A PROFESSIONAL VICTIM. Leave me the hell alone PLEASE!!!!” Taylor concluded the message by pleading, “Enjoy your time with the kids and stop worrying about me! IM BEGGING YOU! WE HAVE NOTHING TO TALK ABOUT BEYOND TRYING TO BE THE BEST PARENTS WE CAN BE.”
Shumpert allegedly responded, “You keep trying to text first and be professional after you crash out. It’s getting tired.” To which Taylor retorted, “I do nothing but have your back when it comes to our children no matter how much of a fool you make of yourself!”
The court has yet to issue a ruling on Shumpert’s motion for legal fees or the broader accusations of divorce judgment violations.