CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Editor's Note: This story discusses domestic violence, which may include descriptions of violent acts. Reader discretion is advised.
Miles Bridges could play in an NBA game for the first time since the 2021-22 season Friday as his suspension for domestic violence charges ends.
Bridges missed all of last season and the first 10 games of this season following his arrest in Los Angeles in June 2022. He was most recently arrested in Lincoln County in mid-October for violating a protection order and child abuse. He was released on a $1,000 bond.
The Charlotte Hornets issued a statement Thursday saying the team is comfortable with Bridges returning to the roster.
“Miles Bridges is eligible to return to our active roster on Friday after serving his NBA suspension," the statement reads. "We are comfortable with Miles returning to play based on our current understanding of the facts of the recent allegations and remain in contact with the NBA as that matter proceeds through the court process.”
The Hornets host the Milwaukee Bucks at 7 p.m. Friday. It's unclear how much, if at all, Bridges will play in the game. Friday's contest is the second of a five-game home stretch for Charlotte. The Hornets are 3-7 overall through 10 games.
According to the criminal summons, Bridges allegedly threatened the mother of his children during a custody exchange on Oct. 6, according to a police report filed on Oct. 10. The report claims that Bridges then threw pool balls at the victim's vehicle, smashing the windshield and denting the car. He then allegedly told her if she told police what happened, that he would "take everything from her and withhold child support."
Bridges signed a one-year qualifying offer with the Hornets in July and expressed regret over the initial domestic violence incident.
"I sincerely apologize for the pain, embarrassment, and disappointment that last year’s incident caused so many people,” Bridges said in July. “Time away from the game allowed me to reflect, immerse myself in therapy, and prioritize becoming a better person - someone my family and peers can be proud of. I’m grateful to the Hornets and the NBA community for giving me a second chance."
Bridges was Charlotte's leading scorer in the 2021-22 season, scoring 20.2 points per game. He played four seasons with the Hornets before he faced these charges.