Sports

James Harden Was Arrested Saturday - Here's Everything We Know So Far

The Cleveland Cavaliers failed to make this year's NBA Finals, but James Harden is making headlines ahead of Game 5.

Harden was arrested this Saturday in Houston, according to Harris County court records. He was taken into custody at 3:41 a.m. for unlawful carrying of a weapon. He was released a little over an hour later after he paid a $100 bond.

TMZ reported that Harden's firearm was in "plain sight and not being carried in a holster." His charge is ultimately a misdemeanor.

"His bond terms ban him from possessing any firearms, ammunition, or other weapons, and from using, possessing, or consuming any alcohol, controlled substance, dangerous drug, or marijuana unless prescribed by a doc," TMZ added. "And, he must submit to random urinalysis."

Harden currently has a court date scheduled for June 22.

The Cavaliers have not yet issued a statement on Harden's arrest.

 May 19, 2026; New York, New York, USA; Cleveland Cavaliers guard James Harden (1) controls the ball against the New York Knicks during the second quarter of game one of the eastern conference finals during the 2026 NBA playoffs at Madison Square Garden. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-Imagn Images
May 19, 2026; New York, New York, USA; Cleveland Cavaliers guard James Harden (1) controls the ball against the New York Knicks during the second quarter of game one of the eastern conference finals during the 2026 NBA playoffs at Madison Square Garden. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-Imagn Images © Brad Penner-Imagn Images.

The timing of this arrest could complicate matters for Harden.

Harden has until June 29 to decide if he'll exercise or decline his $42 million player option for the 2026-27 season. While it may seem like a no-brainer to stay, only $13.3 million of that money is guaranteed.

For what it's worth though, Harden has said he wants to stay in Cleveland.

"Definitely want to be here," Harden told reporters. "It's tough ending it not how we wanted to, but I think we found something."

The Cavaliers reached the Eastern Conference Finals this season, with Harden averaging 19.2 points and 5.5 assists per game during their playoff run.

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This story was originally published June 13, 2026 at 10:32 AM.

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