Lamar Odom arrested on suspicion of DUI in Vegas after reportedly driving more than 100 mph

  • Andy Backstrom
  • January 20, 2026
Former NBA star Lamar Odom is facing legal trouble again after being arrested in Las Vegas on suspicion of driving under the influence, with authorities alleging he was traveling at more than 100 miles per hour before being stopped.

Details emerging from the incident indicate that Odom was pulled over on a major roadway in the Vegas area, where law enforcement reportedly clocked his vehicle at a speed well above the posted limit. He was then taken into custody on suspicion of DUI. Specifics about his blood alcohol content or any additional substances have not been publicly confirmed, and there have been no reports of injuries or collisions tied to the stop.

For a player whose on-court résumé includes two NBA championships with the Los Angeles Lakers and a Sixth Man of the Year award, this latest development adds another complicated chapter to a life that has long played out in the public eye. Odom’s struggles with substance use and personal turmoil have been widely documented, turning him into a cautionary figure as much as a celebrated champion.

From a league perspective, incidents like this underscore the ongoing tension between the NBA’s modern emphasis on player wellness and the reality that support systems do not always prevent relapse or risky behavior. While Odom is long removed from active duty, his name still resonates with current players, many of whom grew up watching him thrive as a versatile forward who helped define positionless basketball.

The NBA itself is unlikely to comment formally on an incident involving a retired player, but the situation will reverberate in player development and mental health circles. Teams and union officials often point to stories like Odom’s when advocating for stronger post-career support, including counseling, financial guidance, and addiction resources.

For fans, the news is another reminder of the fragile line between fame and vulnerability. Lamar Odom’s legacy as a gifted playmaker remains intact, yet episodes like this arrest complicate how his story is told, reinforcing the idea that the challenges facing athletes rarely end when the final buzzer sounds on their careers.