Cleveland Cavaliers’ basketball operations head, Koby Altman, ran into legal trouble on Friday night, getting arrested and charged with operating a vehicle while impaired.
The Ohio State Highway Patrol stopped Altman for a traffic infraction near downtown Cleveland. During the interaction, the officers suspected signs of impairment and subsequently took Altman into custody. Altman was reported to have refused a breath test after his arrest.
Cleveland Cavaliers President of Basketball Operations Koby Altman has been arrested and charged with OVI.
The Cavs statement on the matter:
“We are aware of an incident involving Cavaliers President of Basketball Operations Koby Altman. We are currently gathering more… pic.twitter.com/JyzZj2Js40
— Hoops Nation (@HoopsNation_1) September 16, 2023
The Ohio State Highway Patrol issued a statement, explaining, “Troopers initiated a traffic stop and during their interaction with the driver indicators of impairment were observed.” Altman was arrested for OVI (Operating a Vehicle Impaired) and was noted as being “respectful and cooperative with troopers.”
The Cavaliers responded with a brief statement on Saturday, acknowledging the incident but refraining from further comments. They stated, “We are aware of an incident involving Cavaliers President of Basketball Operations Koby Altman. We are currently gathering more information and have no further comment at this time.”
Cleveland Cavaliers' President of Basketball Ops, Koby Altman, reportedly arrested for DUI on Friday night, per @fox8news pic.twitter.com/3aqYA7kq7Z
— NBArepublic.com (@nba_republic) September 16, 2023
Koby Altman, a member of the Cavaliers’ front office since 2012, steadily climbed the ranks, eventually becoming general manager in 2017. Under his leadership, the team underwent significant rebuilding following LeBron James’ departure in 2018. Last season, the Cavaliers had a great accomplishment by winning 51 games and making it back to the NBA playoffs after a four-year absence. This was their first time making it to the playoffs without LeBron James on the team since the 1997-1998 season.
The FOX 8 I-Team has learned Cleveland Cavaliers President of Basketball Operations Koby Altman was charged Friday night for impaired driving. https://t.co/cew82zbsw8
— fox8news (@fox8news) September 16, 2023
Altman’s impressive contributions were so noteworthy that he received recognition, ultimately finishing as the runner-up in the NBA Executive of the Year voting last season. Moreover, in 2022, the team extended his contract through the 2027-28 season, showcasing their trust in his leadership.