In a major turn of events, Sherra Wright, the ex-wife of NBA player Lorenzen Wright, pleaded guilty Thursday to facilitation of murder in the first degree in connection with Wright's 2010 death and was sentenced to 30 years in prison.
The judge asked Sherra Wright, 48, if she understood if they went to trial she could face life in prison.
"That is why I am here," Wright said.
Wright must serve at least 30 percent of the sentence and will get credit for time served, which means she could be eligible for parole by late 2026.
According to state law, facilitation of first-degree murder is a Class A felony under a "range one sentencing guideline. So, after serving 30 percent of the actual sentence, the person can become eligible for parole.
Lorenzen Wright's family pledged to fight any parole opportunities Sherra Wright might receive in the future.
After Sherra Wright took the stand, Lorenzen Wright’s mother, Deborah Marion, had a moment to speak to the courtroom. Wright's attorneys did not allow her to respond.
Wright's defense attorney planned to use a battered woman's defense, claiming she, along with her children, were beaten by the former NBA player.
Sherra Wright's co-defendent in the case, Billy Turner, 48, was charged with first-degree murder in December 2017 along with Wright and is scheduled for trial Sept. 16.
The 34-year-old Lorenzen Wright was found dead from multiple gunshots in a field in suburban Memphis in July 2010.
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