Paul Pierce was arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence.
On Tuesday (Oct. 7), the California Highway Patrol reportedly found the former Boston Celtics star and NBA Hall of Famer asleep behind the wheel of his Range Rover in the middle of traffic on the 101 Freeway in the San Fernando Valley, per TMZ.
Police were on site following a response to a multi-vehicle crash. As lanes were being reopened near Lankershim Boulevard, officers spotted the Range Rover stopped in the traffic lanes with Pierce asleep inside at around 10:30 p.m.
"When officers approached, they found the driver, later identified as Paul Pierce, asleep at the wheel," the CHP said in a statement, per NBC Los Angeles. "Officers noted signs of alcohol impairment and conducted a DUI investigation."
The 47-year-old was reportedly cited and released from custody. The case will be forwarded to the Los Angeles City Attorney’s office for review.
Per NBC Los Angeles, Pierce was drafted by the Boston Celtics out of Kansas and became a key part of the team’s 2008 NBA championship, playing alongside Kevin Garnett and Ray Allen as part of the Celtics’ Big Three. Nicknamed “The Truth,” Pierce was named NBA Finals MVP after leading Boston to a 4-2 series win over the rival Lakers, securing the franchise’s 17th title in their eleventh finals meeting with Los Angeles.
Pierce also played for the Clippers, Brooklyn Nets, and Washington Wizards.
