James Harden arrives before the World Cup final soccer match between Spain and Argentina in East Rutherford, N.J., near New York, Sunday, July 19, 2026. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)AP Photo
James Harden’s misdemeanor gun charge in Texas has officially been dismissed after the NBA star completed an alternative resolution program, according to court records.
Harris County Criminal Court Judge Alex Salgado dismissed the charge Thursday at the request of the Harris County District Attorney’s Office. The dismissal came after Harden successfully completed an alternative resolution program, which typically allows eligible defendants to avoid a criminal conviction by fulfilling certain requirements, such as community service. Court records did not disclose the specific terms of Harden’s agreement.
The case stemmed from Harden’s June 13 arrest in Houston after police discovered a handgun in his vehicle. Under Texas law, having a handgun in plain view inside a vehicle without meeting legal requirements can result in a misdemeanor charge punishable by up to one year in jail and a $4,000 fine.
Neither Harden’s attorney nor the Harris County District Attorney’s Office immediately commented following the dismissal. The Cleveland Cavaliers also had not issued a public statement.
The legal matter is now behind Harden as he continues navigating NBA free agency. The 11-time All-Star declined his $42.3 million player option earlier this offseason in hopes of securing a new multiyear contract with Cleveland, though an agreement has not yet been finalized.
At 36 years old, Harden remains one of the most accomplished guards of his generation, earning eight All-NBA selections and the 2017-18 NBA Most Valuable Player award during his career.
Last season, split between the Clippers and the Cavaliers , Harden put up per game averages of 23.6 points, 8.0 assists and 4.8 rebounds.
