JAMES HARDEN ARRESTED ON WEAPON CHARGE IN HOUSTON

James Harden was arrested in Houston early on Saturday morning on a misdemeanour gun violation. Police stopped the Cleveland Cavaliers guard whilst he was driving through downtown Houston with four others shortly before 4am. An officer spotted a handgun in the cup holder of Harden's Mercedes, according to court records. Harden confirmed ownership of the weapon and was booked at Harris County Jail. He was released on a $100 bond, with a court date scheduled for 22 June.

Harden is an 11-time All-Star and former NBA MVP from the 2017-18 season. The Cavaliers acquired him in February from the Los Angeles Clippers. During his time with Cleveland this season, he averaged 20.5 points, 7.7 assists and 4.8 rebounds across 26 games. Over the full season across all his teams, he recorded averages of 23.6 points, 8.0 assists and 4.8 rebounds in 70 games. The Cavaliers have not yet issued a statement regarding the incident.

Harden has played for six NBA teams since being selected as the third overall pick in the 2009 draft. His previous clubs include the Oklahoma City Thunder, Houston Rockets, Brooklyn Nets and Philadelphia 76ers. He remains eligible to become a free agent at the end of June, though he is expected to remain with Cleveland following their run to the Eastern Conference finals. Harden has not won an NBA championship during his career.