In this July 7, 2015 file photo, Los Angeles Clippers’ Branden Dawson goes in for an uncontested dunk against the Oklahoma City Thunder during an NBA summer league basketball game in Orlando, Fla. AP
LOS ANGELES — Los Angeles Clippers rookie forward Branden Dawson was arrested Sunday morning on suspicion of felony domestic violence for spousal abuse and could face a suspension by the NBA if convicted.
The 23-year-old American was not on the bench when the Clippers tipped off against Cleveland at Staples Center for a Sunday afternoon contest.
Police said Dawson was arrested at 7:30 a.m. and was being held on $50,000 bail.
The Clippers acquired Dawson last year in an NBA Draft-night trade with the New Orleans Pelicans, who selected him 56th in the annual allocation of collegiate talent. He averaged 12.8 points and 10.3 rebounds while playing for the Clippers in the off-season Summer League.
Dawson was activated Saturday and had played for the Clippers in three games earlier this season.
NBA rules on domestic violence could see Dawson banned for a minimum of 10 games if he is convicted.
The Clippers, off to a 42-22 start, rank fourth in the Western Conference.