Basketball player James Harden, a guard for the Cleveland Cavaliers, was taken into custody in Houston, Texas, last Saturday due to possessing an illegal firearm, according to records from the Harris County District Clerk’s Office.
The official documentation from the Harris County District Clerk’s Office indicates that Harden faced charges for “UNL CARRYING WEAPON – GUN IN MV.” This specific charge denotes that he was illegally transporting an unauthorized firearm inside a vehicle.
The Cavaliers player was detained with a bond set at $100, which was paid on Saturday, leading to his release from police detention. The offense itself is classified as a misdemeanor, and the case summary suggests it pertains to the handgun not being securely or correctly holstered.
Harden’s apprehension occurred at 3:41 a.m. local time on Saturday. Information available on the clerk’s office website states that the subsequent hearing is scheduled for June 22, at which point further actions concerning this legal matter will be determined.
The athletic guard became a member of the Cavaliers prior to the 2026 NBA trade deadline. Cleveland secured his services from the Los Angeles Clippers by trading Darius Garland and a second-round draft selection.
Harden’s professional basketball career in the NBA commenced in 2009. He was selected as the third overall pick in that year’s draft by the Oklahoma City Thunder. Throughout his 15-year tenure, the experienced guard has played for several teams across the league, including stints in Houston, Brooklyn, and Philadelphia, preceding his time with the Clippers and subsequently the Cavaliers.
During his 26 regular season appearances for Cleveland last season, Harden posted averages of 20.5 points, 4.8 assists, and 4.2 rebounds per contest.
The seasoned guard possesses a player option for the upcoming 2026-2027 season; however, there is an expectation that he will discuss a contract extension with the Cavaliers during the current offseason.
