Former Boston Celtic and NBA Hall of Famer Paul Pierce was arrested late Tuesday on suspicion of misdemeanor DUI in Los Angeles, the California Highway Patrol said Thursday.
Pierce, a 10-time NBA All-Star during his 19-year career, was found asleep behind the wheel of his SUV at 10:30 p.m. on the 101 Freeway after officers responded to a multi-vehicle crash on the northbound side of the road in the San Fernando Valley, the CHP said in a news release. Lanes were closed for the crash investigation.
As lanes reopened, CHP officers saw a Range Rover stopped in traffic lanes south of the crash scene near Lankershim Boulevard in North Hollywood, the agency said.
“When officers approached, they found the driver, later identified as Paul Pierce, asleep at the wheel,” the CHP said in a statement. “Officers noted signs of alcohol impairment and conducted a DUI investigation.”
Pierce was arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence of alcohol. The case will be presented to the Los Angeles City Attorney’s office for review.
NBC4 Investigates has learned Pierce, 47, was cited and released from custody.
Pierce was drafted by the Boston out of Kansas and went on to win the NBA championship in 2008 as part of the Celtics’ Big Three, including Kevin Garnett and Ray Allen. Pierce, aka “The Truth,” was the NBA Finals MVP in Boston’s 4-2 series victory against the rival Lakers, leading the Celtics to their 17th title in their eleventh finals clash with Los Angeles.
Pierce also played for the Clippers, Brooklyn Nets and Washington Wizards.