NBA player kidnaps, assaults and strangles victim, police say

Authorities in Massachusetts say an NBA player has been arrested on suspicion of kidnapping and assaulting an individual, though details were scant as of the latest reports available.

According to ESPN, 24-year-old Jabari Bird was transported to a Boston-area hospital for evaluation following his arrest.

His alleged victim was reportedly taken to another hospital for treatment of injuries.

The Boston Celtics selected Bird as the 56th pick of the 2017 NBA draft. Following his rookie season, the shooting guard had been transferred to the team’s active roster.

During the most recent regular NBA season, Bird appeared in 13 games and averaged three points per game.

In a statement released after his arrest, the team confirmed it was “aware of the incident,” but declined further comment on the specifics. The Celtics added that management is “taking it very seriously.”

As for Bird, he was being “guarded by the Boston police at a local hospital” at the time of the police statement.

He is set to appear in court for a preliminary hearing early next week, according to Fox News.

“He is expected to appear in Brighton District Court on Monday, where complaints will be sought against him,” said Boston Police Sgt. John Boyle.

Reports indicate Bird is expected to face criminal charges including kidnapping, assault and battery, and strangulation.

[Featured image: Jabari Bird/Michael Dwyer, Associated Press]