NBA Hall of Famer, Paul Pierce, was arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence after officers reportedly found him asleep behind the wheel on a Los Angeles freeway.
According to multiple reports, including TMZ and CBS News, California Highway Patrol officers discovered the 47-year-old in a Range Rover stopped in the middle of the 101 Freeway late Tuesday night, October 7. Police had been responding to a crash that closed several lanes. Once traffic began moving again, officers noticed Pierce’s vehicle oddly parked in a travel lane.
“When officers approached, they found the driver, later identified as Paul Pierce, asleep at the wheel,” CHP said in a statement. “Officers noted signs of alcohol impairment and conducted a DUI investigation.”
Pierce was arrested, cited, and later released.
This latest incident adds to a growing list of controversies for the former Boston Celtics forward. After retiring from the NBA in 2017, Pierce worked as an analyst at ESPN until 2021, when he was let go following a livestream showing him drinking, smoking, and partying with exotic dancers. The clip went viral, and the network—owned by Disney—reportedly cited a violation of its moral standards.
Reflecting on the firing during an appearance on the I Am Athlete podcast, Pierce questioned the decision.
“I got fired for having some entertainment. I’m playing cards. It’s my boy’s birthday. It’s girls dancing. We’re blowing some tree,” he said. “What did I do wrong?”
Though he later admitted he was told the video violated ESPN’s code of conduct, Pierce stood by his actions, calling the incident overblown.
A 19-season NBA veteran, Pierce is best known for his time with the Boston Celtics, where he became a 10-time All-Star and helped lead the team to a championship in 2008, earning Finals MVP. He was inducted into the Basketball Hall of Fame in 2021.
Following news of his arrest, many fans took to social media to express concern for Pierce’s well-being. Some called the incident a red flag, with comments like “He needs help, man,” and “This is getting very concerning.” Others offered support and prayers, hoping he seeks help if needed.
“He’s been turning up nonstop since retirement,” one person wrote. “Y’all might laugh, but I think dude needs genuine help.”
This arrest comes amid a wave of headlines involving former athletes-turned-commentators. Just months ago, former NFL star Shannon Sharpe was also let go by ESPN following a lawsuit filed against him by a 21-year-old woman, alleging sexual assault and abuse. Sharpe later settled the case for an undisclosed amount, reportedly in the seven-figure range.