NBA star James Harden was arrested early Saturday morning in Houston on a misdemeanor charge of unlawful carrying of a weapon, court records show. Harden, who plays for the Cleveland Cavaliers, was booked into the Harris County Jail around 5 a.m. and released on a $100 bond less than two hours later. The charge, a Class A misdemeanor, carries a maximum penalty of one year in county jail.
Details of the arrest: Court documents allege Harden was carrying an unholstered handgun in his vehicle. The firearm was reportedly in plain view, according to reports. The arrest occurred after Harden allegedly left a local hookah lounge with friends. The Houston Police Department has not yet provided additional details on how the gun was discovered or the exact location of the arrest.
Legal and team response: Harden is scheduled to appear in court on Monday, June 22, at 9 a.m. The Cleveland Cavaliers acknowledged the arrest in a statement, saying they are gathering more information and monitoring developments. Harden’s representatives have not yet responded to requests for comment.
Background: Harden, a 17-year NBA veteran, was traded to the Cavaliers in February from the Los Angeles Clippers. His 2023-24 season ended last month when the Cavaliers were swept by the New York Knicks in the Eastern Conference Finals. Harden previously played for the Houston Rockets from 2012 to 2020, and court records list his current residence as an apartment near the Toyota Center, the Rockets' home arena.