Former NBA MVP James Harden Arrested in Texas for Illegal Weapons Possession

(Central News Agency, Houston, 13th - comprehensive international report) According to court documents, James Harden, the former NBA Most Valuable Player (MVP), was arrested today in Houston, Texas, on a misdemeanor charge of illegal weapons possession.

Reporting jointly from AFP and Reuters, court records from Harris County, Texas, show that Harden, currently playing for the Cleveland Cavaliers, was brought into police custody at 3:41 a.m. Police discovered a handgun in his Mercedes-Benz, openly placed in a cup holder without concealment.

According to the documents, Harden was arrested and taken into custody after confirming to police that the firearm belonged to him. He was later released on a $100 bail (approximately NT$3,200).

Law enforcement officials stated that the firearm was not in a holster and was clearly visible inside the vehicle.

The 36-year-old Harden is scheduled to appear in court on June 22. His bail conditions prohibit him from possessing any firearms, ammunition, or other weapons.

The Cavaliers have not issued any comment on the incident.

Cleveland acquired the veteran guard just before the February trade deadline. In this year's playoffs, Harden averaged 19.2 points and 5.5 assists, helping the team reach the Eastern Conference Finals, where they were swept out by the New York Knicks.

Harden was selected third overall by the Oklahoma City Thunder in the 2009 NBA Draft. He rose to stardom with the Houston Rockets and won the MVP award in 2018.

An 11-time NBA All-Star, Harden has also played for the Brooklyn Nets, Philadelphia 76ers, and Los Angeles Clippers during his career. (Translation: Tsai Chia-min) 1150614