On May 7th, 2021, former NBA guard Ben Gordon was arrested in New York City for possession of weapons. The 37-year-old, who played for the Chicago Bulls, Detroit Pistons, Charlotte Bobcats, and Orlando Magic during his career, was found to be in possession of four firearms, including an Uzi submachine gun, during a traffic stop.
Gordon’s arrest has raised concerns about the prevalence of gun violence in the United States and the need for stricter gun control laws. According to the Gun Violence Archive, there have been over 150 mass shootings in the US in 2021 alone, and over 10,000 deaths from gun violence so far this year.
Gordon’s case is also a reminder of the challenges faced by professional athletes after their careers end. Many former athletes struggle with mental health issues, financial instability, and difficulty adjusting to life outside of sports. In recent years, several high-profile athletes, including former NFL players Junior Seau and Aaron Hernandez, have committed suicide or been involved in violent crimes after retiring from their respective sports.
Gordon’s arrest is a reminder that even successful athletes are not immune to these challenges. Despite earning over $84 million during his NBA career, Gordon has faced legal and financial troubles in recent years. In 2018, he was sued by his former landlord for unpaid rent and damages to a rental property. In 2019, he was arrested for driving with a suspended license and possession of marijuana.
Gordon’s case also highlights the need for greater support for athletes after they retire from professional sports. Many leagues offer programs and resources to help athletes transition to post-sports careers, but more needs to be done to address the mental health and financial challenges that many former athletes face.
In conclusion, Ben Gordon’s arrest for possession of weapons is a troubling reminder of the prevalence of gun violence in the US and the challenges faced by former professional athletes. It is a call to action for greater gun control measures and support for retired athletes.
