Posted at 8:39 a.m., Tuesday, June 19, 2007
NBA: Ex-All-Star Baker charged with drunken driving
Associated Press
NORWICH, Conn. — Former NBA All-Star Vin Baker, whose 14-year career was marred by bouts of depression and alcoholism, was charged early today with drunken driving after leaving a casino.The 35-year-old Baker was spotted driving erratically after leaving Foxwoods Resort Casino, according to a state police report. He failed a sobriety test and was charged with driving while impaired.
State police spokesman Lt. J. Paul Vance described Baker's demeanor as cooperative.
Baker's agent, Charles Grantham, said he hasn't talked to his client and declined comment.
A four-time All-Star forward who attended the University of Hartford, Baker averaged 15.0 points and 7.4 rebounds in the NBA.
The 6-foot-11 forward was a member of the gold medal-winning Olympic team in 2000 and enjoyed his best seasons with Milwaukee and Seattle.
Baker's alcoholism forced the Boston Celtics to cut him midway through the 2003-04 season. He later admitted drinking in his hotel room after playing poorly and showing up to practice with alcohol on his breath.
He also played for New York, Houston and the Los Angeles Clippers before being released by Minnesota six games into the 2006-07 season.
Baker was released on $500 bond and was due in court June 26.
