Even legends can find themselves in trouble when they’re not paying attention.
Former Boston Celtics star Paul Pierce was arrested on suspicion of DUI after being found asleep behind the wheel on a Los Angeles highway, according to the California Highway Patrol.
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The incident unfolded Tuesday around 10:30 p.m. when officers responded to a crash on northbound Highway 101 near Lankershim Boulevard. That’s when they discovered a Range Rover stopped in the southbound lanes with Pierce inside.
Officers noted signs of alcohol impairment and launched a DUI investigation that led to his arrest, per TMZ.
The case will now be reviewed by the Los Angeles City Attorney. Authorities have not released further details regarding Pierce’s condition at the time of arrest or any subsequent legal proceedings.
This isn’t the first time Pierce has dealt with controversy away from the basketball court. Back in 2021, he was let go from his ESPN analyst role after a live Instagram video surfaced showing what was reported as a house party with exotic dancers.
Pierce, now 47, remains a celebrated member of the NBA‘s 75th Anniversary Team despite these off-court issues. During his 19-year career, he was a 10-time All-Star and four-time All-NBA selection.
Dec 7, 2014; Boston, MA, USA; Washington Wizards forward Paul Pierce (34) hangs his head during the second half of the Boston Celtics 101-93 win over the Washington Wizards at TD Garden. Mandatory Credit: Winslow Townson-Imagn Images
He spent his first 15 seasons with the Celtics, capturing the 2007-08 NBA championship and the 2009-10 Eastern Conference title.
The Hall of Famer’s legacy on the court remains secure, but moments like these serve as reminders that reputation takes years to build and only seconds to damage.
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