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Russ Smith, a notable figure in the world of basketball and former star for the Louisville Cardinals, was arrested late Saturday night in Kentucky on allegations of driving under the influence of alcohol.
Details emerging from online records indicate that law enforcement authorities took Smith into custody shortly after midnight on Sunday. He faces charges related to operating a motor vehicle while impaired. This incident marks a significant moment for Smith, who was part of the 2013 Louisville team that originally celebrated an NCAA championship, a title later vacated due to violations of NCAA regulations.
Incident Details
According to reports from the Louisville Courier Journal, officers observed Smith’s vehicle displaying erratic driving patterns. The vehicle reportedly swerved across multiple lanes and even entered a crosswalk. Additionally, authorities noted that the vehicle’s registration tags were out of date.
During the traffic stop, officers reported detecting a strong smell of alcohol on Smith’s breath. His performance on a field sobriety test raised further suspicions, leading to a blood alcohol content reading of 0.073. In Kentucky, drivers exhibiting a BAC between 0.04 and 0.08 may be charged if additional evidence supports impairment.
Admission and Additional Charges
In his statements to the police, Smith admitted to consuming two drinks, specifically mentioning that he had two bourbon pours neat prior to getting behind the wheel. In addition to the DUI charge, records indicate that Smith was charged for operating his vehicle without proper registration plates and for reckless driving.
Smith was released from custody on Sunday and is scheduled to appear in court this coming Wednesday to face the charges brought against him.
Russ Smith’s Basketball Career
At 34 years old, Smith had an impressive basketball career that includes being a key player on Louisville’s championship team. Throughout the NCAA tournament during that memorable championship run, Smith averaged 18.7 points, 3.3 rebounds, and 2.9 assists per game. However, the NCAA later stripped the Louisville basketball program of its title due to serious compliance issues related to recruiting violations.
Following his collegiate success, Smith attempted to carve out a professional path in the NBA. He played briefly for the New Orleans Pelicans and the Memphis Grizzlies, showcasing his skills at the highest level in basketball.
Looking Ahead
This recent incident is undoubtedly a notable moment in Smith’s life, as it highlights the challenges that can arise following a high-profile athletic career. As Smith awaits his court date, it remains to be seen how these events will impact his future, both personally and professionally.
With the ongoing coverage of this story, fans and followers of Smith’s journey will undoubtedly keep a close eye on the developments that unfold in the coming days. This incident serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of responsible decision-making, particularly for those in the public eye.
