A woman who says that Houston Rockets...

A woman who says that Houston Rockets center Akeem Olajuwon broke his promise to marry her, after she became pregnant to prove she could bear him children, is suing the basketball superstar for unspecified damages.

The suit was filed in federal court by Lita Spencer, identified as a longtime companion of the Nigerian-born Olajuwon. Spencer, who gave birth last month to a daughter, claims that Olajuwon promised in July 1987, to marry her. The suit alleges that he gave her a ring to celebrate and announced the engagement to family, friends and business associates.

Because of Olajuwon’s religion, the lawsuit said, he demanded that Spencer prove she is capable of bearing children as a condition of their engagement.

Olajuwon could not be reached for comment.