Nuggets star Anthony makes apology for arrest

DENVER, Colorado: National Basketball Association star Carmelo Anthony, who was booked on alleged drunk driving Monday, apologized for his arrest on Tuesday.

The Denver Nuggets forward was arrested just hours after Denver's 111-94 victory over Houston on April 13.

Denver has been in the process of trying to lock up the eighth and final playoff spot in the Western Conference.

"I want to apologize to my family, fans and the Denver Nuggets organization for my actions early Monday morning," he said.

"I regret putting myself in this situation. I also want to apologize to my teammates for the distraction this has caused."

There was some speculation about whether Anthony received special treatment because the police offered to drive him home after his release.

Anthony's fiancee LaLa Vazquez also denied reports that she refused to go to the police station to get him.

"I never refused to pick him up from the police station. In fact, they offered to bring him to me," Vazquez said on Tuesday.

This is not the first time Anthony has been in trouble with authorities.

In December 2006, Anthony was slapped with the sixth-longest suspension in NBA history (15 games) after he sucker punched New York Knicks' Mardy Collins during a fight between the Nuggets and the Knicks. Jared Jefferies then chased Anthony across the court.

Despite the distraction of its second-leading scorer, the Nuggets (49-32) were able to clinch that spot in the playoffs without even having to take the court on Monday, as Golden State's loss at Phoenix eliminated the Warriors from the postseason.

Denver police said Anthony was pulled over and taken into custody for alleged drunk driving early Monday morning. Investigators said he was driving a silver Mercedes that was weaving between lanes.

Anthony was released on bail Monday and given a summons to appear in court May 14.

"I want to thank everyone who has continued to support me during this difficult time," Anthony said. "My lawyers have asked that I not comment further, however, I will continue to cooperate with all parties involved."

AFP

(China Daily 04/17/2008 page24)