10:08 PM ET

Montrezl Harrell is facing a felony drug charge after authorities said they found vacuum- sealed bags of marijuana in his car during a traffic stop.

According to court records, a state trooper pulled over Harrell for driving behind a vehicle too close. Three pounds of marijuana were found in a backpack in the backseat of the trooper's car after he smelled marijuana and searched it.

He has been accused of selling less than five pounds of pot. He could face up to five years in prison if found guilty on that count. There is a preliminary hearing for him in July.

In seven seasons in the NBA, the former star for Louisville has played for the LA Clippers, Houston and the LA Lakers. He was acquired by the Hornets in a trade with the Washington Wizards at the trade deadline and averaged over 10 points and five boards. This summer, he will be free to sign a new contract.

It was not clear if he had an attorney who could make a statement. The Charlotte Observer reported that the Hornets didn't comment.

The AP contributed to the story.