NBA YoungBoy Pardoned by Trump: Rapper Cleared of Charges Ahead of U.S. Tour

NBA YoungBoy’s name has been making headlines for years, and not just because of his Billboard hits or YouTube dominance. But this week, it wasn’t a new song or viral video that had fans talking — it was a presidential pardon. Yep, Kentrell Gaulden, the Louisiana rapper known to the world as NBA YoungBoy, just got a second chance, thanks to former President Donald Trump.

On Wednesday, Gaulden was officially pardoned after serving time for federal gun charges. He had been sentenced to just under two years in prison back in 2024, with a mix of federal charges and a probation deal that could have kept him tied up in the legal system for years. Now? He’s a free man.

A Statement of Gratitude and Growth

“I want to thank President Trump for granting me a pardon and giving me the opportunity to keep building — as a man, as a father, and as an artist,” Gaulden shared in a heartfelt online message. That tone of reflection is something fans don’t always associate with NBA YoungBoy, who’s known for his raw and aggressive lyrics. But here, he’s clearly looking toward a future with less chaos and more control.

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His attorney, Drew Findling, confirmed that this pardon ends all probation requirements. That means no more drug testing, no more check-ins, and no more restrictions that could derail his career. According to Findling, “The battles have been endless… now he can concentrate on his family, and of course, his amazing career.”

From Legal Struggles to Grammy Nominations

Gaulden’s legal troubles stemmed from multiple incidents. He admitted to having firearms in both Baton Rouge and at his home in Utah, despite already having a conviction in Louisiana for aggravated assault with a firearm. Add to that his guilty plea in a Utah-based prescription drug fraud case, and it’s clear he was facing serious consequences.

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Despite it all, he’s kept his music career alive. He’s got four No. 1 albums on the Billboard 200 and even scored a Grammy nomination for “Wusyaname” with Tyler, The Creator and Ty Dolla $ign. Not bad for someone who’s been in and out of courtrooms for years.

Mark Your Calendars: U.S. Tour Coming in September

With all this legal baggage behind him, NBA YoungBoy is ready to hit the road. He’s gearing up for a major U.S. tour starting in September, and fans are already buzzing. It’s been a long time coming for an artist whose catalog is stacked with hits like “38 Baby” and “Outside Today.”

Whether you’re a longtime fan or someone just tuning in, this is a moment to watch. The man who once stood on the edge of losing it all now has the freedom to do what he does best — make music and make moves.

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