Report: Phoenix Suns Release Statement On P.J. Tucker DUI Arrest
By Mario Hicks
The Phoenix Suns president of basketball operations has released a statement regarding the Suns forward, P.J. Tucker’s DUI from May.
"“Like P.J. himself, the Phoenix Suns take P.J.’s behavior very seriously. We remain fully committed to the highest standards of personal and professional conduct as we develop a championship culture,” the statement said. “All of the members of our team, both on the court and in the front office, understand the importance of obeying the law and conducting ourselves in a way that honors our community.“In considering this matter, we concluded that P.J. was sincere in his remorse and in his resolve to accept the consequences of his actions. We are convinced that he will take the necessary steps to avoid any such conduct in the future. The Suns do not in any way condone his conduct, but we do support him as he works through this.”"
News of the arrest sprang up last week, even though the incident took place in May of this year.
P.J. Tucker, was arrested for an “extreme DUI” after rolling through a stop sign in Scottsdale, Ariz.
On July 23, Tucker signed a three-year, $16.5 million deal with the Phoenix Suns. He started 81 games for the team last season at the small forward position.
P.J. Tucker was charged on four counts, three of which were varying levels of DUI’s and the fourth was for running a stop sign. Tucker’s breathalyzer tested three times the legal limit.
In addition to his jail time, he will face 11 days of house arrest, but he will be able to leave for 12 hours per day, for work purposes. He will be subject substance abuse screening and counseling, and faces the possibility of probation for up to five years.
P.J. Tucker, through the team, released a statement regarding his arrest.
"“I would like to express my gratitude to the people of Phoenix for their love and support during my time as a Phoenix Sun. Thank you to the Phoenix Suns organization for supporting me throughout this difficult time. And, of course my wife Tracey, family and friends, who just keep loving me. I cannot express how much I appreciate and value the many blessings that I have been given – love and abundance that I never imagined. I am truly blessed. I am so grateful that no one was hurt as a result of my choice to drive impaired.I am truly sorry and I take full responsibility for my actions. No excuses. It is now my responsibility to examine my life and make the changes necessary to ensure this never happens again. That process has begun and will continue with the love and support of my family, friends and, of course, the amazing Phoenix Suns.There is both a lesson and an opportunity in this experience: I learned the lesson the hard way – the opportunity is to ensure others don’t.The good that resulted from making this mistake is realizing people’s capacity to forgive. Thank you all so much for the love and forgiveness that I have received throughout this time.I will not let you down.Thank you.”"