James Harden’s misdemeanor gun charge dismissed in Texas

A misdemeanor gun charge against James Harden has been dismissed.

As relayed by John Hanna of The Associated Press, the Cavaliers guard avoided a criminal conviction after completing an alternative resolution program stemming from his June arrest in Houston.

Harden was arrested June 13 after police discovered a handgun in his vehicle during a traffic stop. Under Texas law, carrying a gun in plain view inside a vehicle without a license can result in a misdemeanor charge.

Court records show the case has now been dismissed.

Alternative resolution programs can allow defendants to avoid convictions by completing requirements such as community service, though court documents did not disclose the specific terms of Harden’s agreement, per the AP.

The charge was never viewed as an obstacle to Harden’s anticipated return to Cleveland.

Harden declined his $42.3 million player option for the 2026-27 season in June, but the Cavaliers and the former NBA MVP have continued working toward a new multiyear contract.

The delay has been about roster flexibility, not Harden’s legal situation.

Cleveland has been exploring additional moves this offseason, including a possible sign-and-trade for Nuggets restricted free agent Peyton Watson. Harden has been willing to wait on finalizing his deal while the Cavs determine what else they can accomplish.

With the Texas case resolved, one piece of Harden’s offseason business is officially behind him. The Cavs are still working on the other.