Former NBA guard Ben Gordon, known for his time with the Chicago Bulls and UConn Huskies, has been granted the opportunity to have charges stemming from a 2023 incident at a juice shop in Connecticut erased from his record. The charges, which included weapons and threatening offenses, could be expunged if Gordon successfully completes an 18-month probation program that runs until September 2025.
Gordon's arrest occurred on his 40th birthday, shortly after UConn secured its fifth NCAA men's basketball championship. Police responded to reports of Gordon behaving aggressively and erratically at the Juice Kings shop in Stamford. Upon arrival, officers found Gordon in possession of a folding knife, a stun gun, and brass knuckles.
Gordon's lawyer revealed that the former NBA player has been grappling with mental health challenges but has shown improvement since the incident. The altercation at the juice shop reportedly stemmed from Gordon's frustration over a declined bank card payment, exacerbated by dietary restrictions he was following at the time.
Since his arrest, Gordon has attended numerous psychotherapy sessions and received support from his former coach, Jim Calhoun, who described him as an outstanding individual actively addressing his past issues. Calhoun's letter to the court in Stamford emphasized Gordon's commitment to therapy and personal growth.
Throughout his NBA career, Gordon openly discussed his struggles with bipolar disorder and depression, factors that have contributed to his legal troubles in recent years. Prior to the juice shop incident, Gordon faced charges related to altercations at New York's LaGuardia Airport and a McDonald's in Chicago, resulting in guilty pleas but no jail time.
Despite these challenges, Gordon remains connected to UConn, where he played a pivotal role in the 2004 national championship team. His ongoing efforts to address mental health issues and pursue personal development have garnered support from his community and former colleagues.
