Cleveland Cavaliers guard James Harden was arrested early Saturday morning in Houston on a misdemeanor charge of unlawful carrying of a weapon in a motor vehicle. According to court records, Harden was driving through downtown Houston with four other people when police spotted a handgun in the cup holder of his Mercedes. The weapon was in plain view and not in a holster. Harden had reportedly been inside a hookah lounge with friends prior to the arrest.
Harden was arrested at 3:41 a.m. and booked just before 5 a.m. He was released from police custody less than two hours later after posting a $100 bond. Listed as a Houston resident in court documents, his arraignment is scheduled for June 22.
The Cleveland Cavaliers stated they are aware of the arrest and are gathering additional information while remaining in contact with Harden and his representation. The 36-year-old 11-time All-Star and former MVP recently completed his 17th NBA season. Following a loss to the New York Knicks in the Eastern Conference finals, Harden indicated he would like to remain with the club, despite having a $42.3 million option to return for the next season.