Former NBA player Delonte West was arrested on November 3, 2025, after police responded to a call reporting a man found unconscious and not breathing near Fair Haven Avenue and Richmond Highway in Fairfax County, Virginia. The individual was later identified as West, who was found to be breathing but severely intoxicated.
According to the Fairfax County Police Department, officers and emergency medical services arrived at the scene following a call for service regarding a male in distress. Upon arrival, they discovered West conscious but visibly impaired. Police offered to transport him to a hospital for medical evaluation, but West refused treatment.
Due to his level of intoxication and concern for his safety, officers placed West under arrest. He was taken into custody without incident and later released on bond. As of now, it remains unclear whether formal charges will be filed.
West, 42, has faced a series of personal and legal challenges since retiring from professional basketball. He has battled substance abuse and mental health issues for years, with multiple arrests and public incidents drawing concern from fans and former teammates.
In 2024, West was arrested for trespassing at a location from which he had previously been banned. That incident occurred almost exactly one year prior to this latest arrest, underscoring the cyclical nature of his struggles.
Delonte West played eight seasons in the NBA from 2004 to 2012, suiting up for the Boston Celtics, Seattle SuperSonics, Cleveland Cavaliers, and Dallas Mavericks. Known for his gritty defense and clutch shooting, West was a key contributor during his time with LeBron James in Cleveland and later with Dirk Nowitzki in Dallas.
He averaged 9.7 points, 3.6 assists, and 2.9 rebounds per game over his career. Despite his on-court success, West’s post-NBA life has been marked by instability and hardship.
If you are experiencing emotional distress or other mental health concerns, you can call or text the SAMHSA Disaster Distress Helpline 1-800-985-5990. Call or text 988 or chat 988lifeline.org. You can also reach Crisis Text Line by texting MHA to 741741.
