Rockets PG Alston arrested

Aug 7, 2007 - 1:25 AM HOUSTON (Ticker) -- Houston Rockets guard Rafer Alston was arrested early Sunday morning.

The Houston Chronicle reported that Alston, 31, was charged with public intoxication and assault after shaking and spitting in the face of a parking attendant in downtown Houston, according to police.

Rockets general manager Daryl Morey issued a statement Monday morning expressing the team's concern.

"We are aware of the situation and are attempting to get more details about the incident," Morey said. "While we do not have all the facts yet, it is nevertheless very disappointing to have one of our players involved with any police activity. We will continue working with the authorities in order to get to the bottom of the situation."

"Apparently the parking attendant saw that Rafer had parked illegally, did not pay the attendant, and had the vehicle towed," Houston Police spokesman Gabe Ortiz told the newspaper.

Alston assaulted the man when he returned and realized his vehicle had been towed, Ortiz said.

Both charges are Class C misdemeanors.

Alston released a statement later Monday expressing regret and saying reports of the incident were overblown.

"Although I regret what happened - and apologize to my fans, teammates and the organization for any distraction - the accounts of what happened are widely exaggerated by individuals that stand to profit," Alston said. "I am confident that when the full story is reported, I will be vindicated."

The 6-2 Alston averaged 13.3 points and 5.4 assists in 82 games with Houston this past season.

Alston has played parts of eight campaigns with the Rockets, Toronto Raptors, Miami Heat and Milwaukee Bucks, averaging 9.6 points and 4.8 assists in 468 career games.