Quote from Oladosun Joshua Segun on June 14, 2026, 7:24 AM

James Harden is in legal hot water. As per Harris County court records that several publications were able to get, the NBA player was detained and accused of carrying a handgun illegally in Houston, Texas on June 13.

According to the documents, Harden, 36, was arrested at 3:40 a.m. ET when a police officer pulled him over in downtown Houston and found a handgun in his car that was clearly visible and not in a holster. After that, the point guard for the Cleveland Cavaliers was arrested and charged with a misdemeanor. The Houston Chronicle reports that he was freed on bond a few hours later.

According to the court filings, Harden's bond terms forbid him from owning any firearms, ammo, or other weapons. The athlete is also prohibited from consuming or possessing alcohol, drugs, or other restricted substances, including marijuana, unless prescribed by a physician, and must submit to random urine testing prior to his June 22 court date.

Harden's agent has been contacted by news organizations for comment, but they have not received a response.

The Cavaliers acknowledged Harden's detention in a statement. Harden joined the Cavaliers earlier this year following a midseason deal from the Los Angeles Clippers.

"The Cleveland Cavaliers are aware of the arrest of James Harden this morning and are in the process of gathering additional information," based on ESPN, the team released a statement. "We are in contact with James and his representation and will continue to monitor developments as they become available. At this time, we will have no further comment."

After being selected by the Oklahoma City Thunder in the 2009 NBA Draft, Harden played for the organization until 2012, when he was traded to the Houston Rockets. Harden was moved to the Los Angeles Clippers in 2023 after playing for the Brooklyn Nets and Philadelphia 76ers.

The Cavaliers, who lost to the New York Knicks in the playoffs last month, obtained him in February.