Nuggets' Anthony apologizes for arrest

Apr 16, 2008 - 2:41 AM DENVER (Ticker) -- Denver Nuggets star forward Carmelo Anthony issued a public apology Tuesday for his arrest early Monday morning on suspicion of driving under the influence.

As expected, the All-Star was remorseful for his actions, especially since Denver has been in the process of trying to lock up the eighth and final playoff spot for the Western Conference.

"I want to apologize to my family, fans and the Denver Nuggets organization for my actions early Monday morning," he said. "As a leader, I know they expect a lot from me and I regret putting myself in this situation. I also want to apologize to my teammates for the distraction this has caused."

Despite the distraction of its second-leading scorer, the Nuggets (49-32) were able to clinch that spot in the playoffs without even having to take the court on Monday, as Golden State' loss at Phoenix eliminated the Warriors from the postseason.

Anthony fell on the wrong side of the law just hours after Denver's 111-94 victory over Houston on Sunday.

Denver police have stated that Anthony was driving south on Interstate 25 roughly around 4 a.m. Monday when he was pulled over and taken into custody. Investigators said he was driving a silver Mercedes that was stopped for failing to drive in a single lane and failing to dim lights.

Anthony was released on bond Monday morning on his own recognizance. A summons appearance was scheduled for May 14.

"I want to thank everyone who has continued to support me during this difficult time," Anthony said. "My attorneys have asked that I not comment further, however I will continue to cooperate with all parties involved."

Much of the support received by Anthony has come from fiance LaLa Vazquez, who issued a statement through her publicist Tuesday and addressed why she did not drive the star player home upon his release.

"I want to make sure the public understands that I fully support my fiance, Carmelo Anthony, and stand by him through this ordeal," she said. "I will always have his back and never refused to pick him up from the police station. In fact, they offered to bring him to me."

"LaLa continues to be a rock in my life," Anthony said. "She's always been there for me through thick and thin."