James Harden's Texas Misdemeanor Gun Charge Dismissed

A Texas judge dismissed the misdemeanor gun charge against NBA All‑Star James Harden after he completed an alternative‑resolution program. The charge stemmed from a June 13 arrest in Houston, where police found a handgun in his vehicle that was not holstered, a violation under Texas law that can carry up to one year in jail and a $4,000 fine. Harris County Criminal Court Judge Alex Salgado threw out the case at the request of the Harris County district attorney’s office, noting Harden’s successful completion of the diversion program, which typically involves community service. The dismissal removes any criminal record for Harden and comes as he negotiates a new multi‑year contract with the Cleveland Cavaliers, having declined a $42.3 million player option for the next season. No contract has been finalized yet, but the legal resolution clears a potential distraction from his free‑agency talks.