Cleveland Cavaliers guard James Harden was released from custody after being arrested in Houston on Saturday morning on a charge of unlawfully carrying a weapon.
According to court documents, the incident occurred at 03:41 local time when a police officer noticed an unconcealed handgun resting in the cup holder of Harden’s Mercedes. The basketball player had been driving through downtown Houston when officers stopped him.
Authorities reported that the firearm became visible when Harden pulled up behind another vehicle, prompting further action from law enforcement.
Weapon identified as Harden’s
Following the stop, Harden acknowledged that the handgun belonged to him. He was subsequently taken into custody and transported to Harris County Jail, where he was formally booked.
The 36-year-old was later freed after posting a bond of $100 (£75). Court records show that he is scheduled to appear before the court on 22 June.
No additional details regarding the circumstances surrounding the arrest were included in the available records.
Cavaliers gathering information
The Cleveland Cavaliers confirmed that they were aware of the situation and had begun collecting further information about the arrest.
In a statement, the organization said it was in contact with Harden and his representatives while monitoring developments. The team added that it would have no further comment at this stage.
The franchise has not announced whether any disciplinary action will follow as the matter proceeds.
A veteran star joined Cleveland this year
Harden arrived in Cleveland in February after being acquired in a trade from the Los Angeles Clippers.
During his time with the Cavaliers this season, he averaged 20.5 points, 7.7 assists, and 4.8 rebounds across 26 starts for his new team.
One of the NBA’s most decorated players, Harden is a six-time first-team All-NBA selection and earned the league’s Most Valuable Player award for the 2017-18 season.
Long NBA career spans six franchises
Since being selected with the third overall pick in the 2009 NBA Draft, Harden has represented several teams during his professional career.
His NBA journey has included spells with the Oklahoma City Thunder, Houston Rockets, Brooklyn Nets, Philadelphia 76ers, and Los Angeles Clippers before his move to the Cavaliers.
The arrest in Houston comes during his first season with Cleveland following that February trade.