Former NBA MVP James Harden was arrested early Saturday morning in Houston on a misdemeanor gun violation, according to court records. The Cleveland Cavaliers guard was released from Harris County Jail on a $100 bond and has a court date scheduled for June 22.
Details of the Arrest
Harden was driving through downtown Houston with four others when police stopped his Mercedes just before 4 a.m. An officer spotted a handgun in the cup holder after Harden pulled up behind another vehicle. Harden confirmed the gun was his and was booked into jail.
Cavaliers Respond
The Cleveland Cavaliers released a statement acknowledging the arrest: "We are aware of the arrest of James Harden this morning and are gathering additional information. We are in contact with James and his representation and will continue to monitor developments. At this time, we will have no further comment."
Harden's Career
Harden, an 11-time All-Star and the 2017-18 league MVP, joined the Cavaliers 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 Cleveland after helping them reach the Eastern Conference finals this season. He averaged 20.5 points, 7.7 assists, and 4.8 rebounds in 26 games with the Cavaliers, and 23.6 points, 8.0 assists, and 4.8 rebounds in 70 games overall.
Since being drafted third overall in 2009, Harden has played for the Oklahoma City Thunder, Houston Rockets, Brooklyn Nets, Philadelphia 76ers, Clippers, and Cavaliers, but has yet to win an NBA championship. He is widely expected to be inducted into the Hall of Fame.
