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NBA's Zach Randolph arrested after crowd, police clash in Watts
FILE - In this April 27, 2017, file photo Memphis Grizzlies forward Zach Randolph warms up before an NBA basketball game against the San Antonio Spurs in Memphis, Tenn. Police say Randolph was arrested on a marijuana charge after several police cars were vandalized when a large gathering became unruly at a Los Angeles housing project on Wednesday, Aug. 9, 2017. Randolph was taken into custody on suspicion of possession of marijuana with intent to sell. (AP Photo/Brandon Dill,File)
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Brandon Dill/AP
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NBA player Zach Randolph was one of two people arrested Wednesday night in Watts after a clash between residents and police prompted a massive law enforcement response.
Officers from the LAPD say they spotted a large crowd drinking, smoking marijuana and blocking the road at the Nickerson Gardens housing complex just before 10:30 p.m. When officers arrived, a crowd formed to prevent officers from following two men who ran inside one of the units to avoid police.
"Officers were able to gain entry to the unit and took the two into custody," said Officer Liliana Preciado to KPCC. "The crowd grew larger, became agitated and started throwing rocks and bottles at the officers."
Numerous units from the LAPD and the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department responded to an "officer needs help" call. Several police cars were vandalized during the clash.
Randolph was arrested on suspicion of possessing marijuana with intent to sell.
He currently plays for the Sacramento Kings but has played for several other teams, including the Clippers.
Authorities were cleared the scene by 12:45 a.m.
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