The Charlotte Hornets restricted free agent Miles Bridges from going to jail after facing domestic violence allegations in an incident in June this year.
Bridges appeared in Los Angeles Superior Court Thursday to plead no contest to the felony domestic violence allegations. In the process, he struck a deal with prosecutors that included a three-year probation but no jail time.
The uncontested guilty plea meant Bridges accepted responsibility for his role in the incident but did not plead guilty.
The former first-round pick is accused of assaulting his then-girlfriend in front of their two children in May. Back in July, the Los Angeles District Attorney's Office charged him with a felony.
- Felony Domestic Violence
- Two felonies of child abuse
Shortly after her arrest, the woman accused of domestic violence in Bridges shared a disturbing video claiming the injuries she suffered were a direct result of the incident in question.
"I hate it has come to this point, but I can't be silent anymore. I allowed someone to destroy my home, abuse me in every possible way, and hurt our children for the rest of their lives.
I have nothing to prove to the world, but I will not allow anyone who can do such a terrible thing to paint a picture of what I am not without regret. I will not allow the people around him to continue to silence me and continue to lie to protect this person.
Michelle Johnson's accusations against Miles Bridges
Based on the guilty plea, two felony charges of child abuse were dropped. Bridges' probation also includes requiring him to attend a 52-week domestic violence counseling course, a 52-week parenting course and 100 hours of community service.
What the plea deal means for Miles Bridges' NBA career
Bridges, 24, was arrested within hours of an NBA free agent tampering period that began last summer. At this point, he is considered one of the most restricted free agents on the market and will receive the largest contract offer. Clearly, this arrest changed everything.
From a technical standpoint, any team can sign Bridges on a quote. Charlotte has made a qualifying offer to the striker and has opted not to withdraw it after her arrest. That means he's still a restricted free agent.
- Myers-Bridges stats (2021-22): 20.2 points, 7.0 rebounds, 3.8 assists, 49% shooting, 33% three-pointers
Ended the best season of his career. Bridges' on-court influence is unquestionable. Instead, it all depends on a team's willingness to take on the PR blow that comes with signing him.
It's also important to note that Bridges faces discipline from the NBA. Under the current collective bargaining agreement, Commissioner Adam Silver could choose to suspend, fine or simply disqualify the former Michigan State star from further links with the league.
As for returning to the Hornets, it doesn't seem to be under consideration yet. While they have retained his rights for the time being, the group seems to have shed their previous lottery pickiness. It would also be a surprise if other teams showed initial interest in Bridges, despite his ability on the court.