Timberwolves' Al Jefferson Accused of Drunk Driving

MINNEAPOLIS - Al Jefferson, basketball player for the Minnesota Timberwolves, was arrested on suspicion of drunk driving early Sunday on Interstate Highway 394.

A Minnesota State Patrol officer stopped the 25-year-old NBA All-Star at 1:08 a.m. Sunday after his vehicle was clocked going 56 mph on a 40 mph limit road. State Patrol say the vehicle’s tires crossed the fog line and that Jefferson made a lane change without signaling.

Jefferson was cooperative and performed a field sobriety test, which indicated he was impaired, said the Patrol. He was then taken to HCMC, where he submitted to a blood test – results are pending.

He was then booked into Hennepin County jail on suspicion on 4th degree DWI before being released without bail at 3:19 a.m. Sunday morning.

Jefferson is scheduled for a court appearance on April 23rd at 8:30 a.m. in a Hennepin County Court.

Timberwolves President of Basketball Operations David Kahn released the following statement regarding Jefferson:

On behalf of the Timberwolves organization, we are disappointed that Al used poor judgment last night. Thankfully, nobody was injured or hurt.

Having spoken to Al, I can assure everybody associated with our franchise that Al understands this is a matter of the utmost seriousness. He feels terrible about what occurred and I believe him when he says he will learn from his mistake.

Nonetheless, we believe that it is appropriate for Al to be suspended for the next two games without pay.

Al Jefferson also released a statement apologizing for his actions:

I want to apologize to the entire Timberwolves organization, owner Glen Taylor, my teammates, coaches and Wolves fans everywhere for my actions last night.

I made a very poor decision and I am truly sorry for that. As a leader on this team, I know that more is expected of me, and I am disappointed in myself. I will learn from my mistake so that it does not happen again.

I fully understand and support the organization's disciplinary action. I will continue to work both on and off the court to be the best person I can be.