Ex-NBA MVP Harden arrested in Texas with handgun in car

NBA star James Harden was arrested in Houston, Texas, on charges of illegally carrying a weapon. The former Most Valuable Player was taken into custody early Saturday morning after police discovered a handgun inside his Mercedes-Benz.

According to court documents, the firearm was found unsecured in a cup holder within the vehicle. Harden, 36, confirmed the gun belonged to him and was subsequently arrested and booked into jail. He was later released on a $100 bond.

Law enforcement officials stated the gun was not in a holster and was in plain view inside the car. Harden's bail conditions prohibit him from possessing any firearms, ammunition, or other weapons. He is scheduled to appear in court on June 22.

The Cleveland Cavaliers, Harden's current team, have not yet commented on the incident. Harden joined the Cavaliers at the February trade deadline and averaged 19.2 points and 5.5 assists in the playoffs, helping the team reach the Eastern Conference Finals before being swept by the New York Knicks.