James Harden, the former NBA MVP and current Cleveland Cavaliers guard, was arrested early Saturday morning in Houston on a misdemeanor weapon charge. He was released from jail on a $100 bond.
Details of the Incident
According to court records, Harden was driving through downtown Houston with four other individuals when police stopped him just before 4 a.m. An officer spotted a handgun in the cup holder of his Mercedes after Harden drove up behind another vehicle. Harden confirmed the gun was his and was taken into custody.
He was booked at Harris County Jail and later released on bond. A court date has been scheduled for June 22.
Team Response
The Cleveland Cavaliers released a statement saying they are aware of the arrest and are gathering more information. They are in contact with Harden and his representatives and will monitor developments. The team declined further comment at this time.
Player Background
Harden, an 11-time All-Star and the 2017-18 league MVP, is playing for his sixth NBA team. Cleveland acquired him in a February trade with the Los Angeles Clippers. The 36-year-old is eligible for free agency at the end of June but is expected to stay with the Cavaliers after helping them reach the Eastern Conference finals this season.
In 26 games with the Cavaliers, Harden averaged 20.5 points, 7.7 assists, and 4.8 rebounds. For the season, he averaged 23.6 points, 8.0 assists, and 4.8 rebounds across 70 games.
Since being drafted third overall in 2009, Harden has played for the Oklahoma City Thunder, Houston Rockets, Brooklyn Nets, Philadelphia 76ers, Clippers, and Cavaliers. Despite his individual accolades, he has yet to win an NBA championship, though his career is expected to earn him a Hall of Fame induction.
