Harden Detained in Houston Over Weapon

NBA veteran name James Harden was detained early Saturday morning, June 13, in Houston, Texas. According to information conveyed by NBC News, the Cleveland Cavaliers star was stopped by authorities at 03:41 local time in Harris County and was processed with the charge of "Unlawful Carrying Weapons". According to court documents, an unholstered handgun was found in plain view inside Harden's vehicle. The charge falls under the misdemeanour category according to Texas laws.

The 36-year-old player was booked at 04:57 and was released on a $100 unsecured bond. According to the bond conditions, Harden is prohibited from possessing firearms, ammunition or any other type of weapons; in addition, he is also prohibited from consuming alcohol, marijuana, controlled substances or dangerous drugs not prescribed by a physician. According to the court order, the player will also be subject to random urinalysis tests. Harden's next court date has been set for June 22.

This incident came at a critical time for Harden. The veteran player, who joined Cleveland Cavaliers through trade before the 2026 season, had completed the season with averages of 20.5 points and 7.7 assists. Harden, who reached the Eastern Conference semi-finals with the Cavaliers for the first time since 2018, had stated after the series in which his team was eliminated 4-0 by the New York Knicks that he wanted to stay in Cleveland. He needs to make a decision by June 29 regarding the $42 million player option; only $13.3 million of the season is guaranteed. Harden, who wore the jerseys of Houston Rockets, Brooklyn Nets, Philadelphia 76ers and Los Angeles Clippers throughout his career, is considered one of the best shooting guards in NBA history. The Cleveland Cavaliers and the player's agent have not yet made an official statement regarding the incident.

Image: nbcnews.com