James Harden has been arrested. The former NBA MVP was reportedly found in possession of a handgun, just months after being traded to the Cleveland Cavaliers.
"The 36-year-old guard was charged with unlawful carrying of a weapon early Saturday morning, June 13. Harden was arrested in Texas after authorities allegedly found a handgun in his vehicle that was in plain sight and not secured in a holster," Dexerto reported. "The outlet reported that the charge is a misdemeanor."
Following his arrest, Harden was reportedly held on a $100 bond, which has since been posted. A decision regarding his current case and its next steps is set for June 22,
Harden's bond conditions will prohibit him from possessing a firearm, ammunition, or other weapons. TMZ has also reported that Harden will be banned from drinking alcohol or using controlled substances that haven't been prescribed. He's subject to random urine tests.
Unfortunately for Harden, his arrest came shortly after the Cleveland Cavaliers had been eliminated from the NBA Playoffs. The franchise lost four straight games to the New York Knicks during the Eastern Conference Finals. New York has since won the NBA Championship, defeating the San Antonio Spurs in five games.
James Harden Has Enjoyed a Stellar NBA Career
Despite his limited success during the postseason, Harden has proven himself to be one of the best scorers of his generation. "The Beard" has just completed his 17th season in the league, where he's amassed 1221 regular-season games, of which he's started 1007.
Harden was named the NBA MVP in 2018. He's finished as the runner-up in MVP voting on three occasions, with a third-place finish in 2020. An 11-time All-Star, Harden is a decorated talent who has also previously won the Sixth Man of the Year award.
Throughout his career, Harden has averaged 24 points, 5.6 rebounds, and 7.3 assists, shooting 50.6% from two-point range and 36.4% from deep. He's a shoo-in for the Hall of Fame once he eventually decides to hang up his sneakers.
Nevertheless, Harden's career achievements won't mean much if he can't end his career on his own terms. For that reason, he will undoubtedly hope to avoid a major punishment for his recent brush with the law.
