Tristan Thompson, a forward playing for the Cleveland Cavaliers, has faced a setback as the NBA suspended him for 25 games due to a violation of the league’s anti-drug program. The NBA found him positive for two prohibited substances, ibutamoren, and SARM LGD-4033, known for their performance-enhancing properties. This incident adds to the ongoing string of drug-related controversies impacting the NBA.
This article will delve into the details of the situation, its potential repercussions on Thompson's career and the Cavaliers, reactions from fans and analysts, and the broader implications for the NBA’s anti-drug program.
On Tuesday, 23 Jan 2024, the NBA revealed that Tristan Thompson, a forward with the Cleveland Cavaliers, will face a 25-game suspension without pay for breaching the league’s anti-drug program. The 32-year-old player tested positive for two prohibited substances: ibutamoren and SARM LGD-4033.
The NBA penalized Cleveland Cavaliers' Tristan Thompson for 25 games without pay for violating its anti-drug policy. Image Source: Instagram@realtristan13
These substances are recognized for their ability to stimulate growth hormone and increase muscle mass, respectively. This information is presented in the English language.
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Thompson's suspension is set to commence on Wednesday, coinciding with the Cleveland Cavaliers' game against the Milwaukee Bucks. He is anticipated to be absent for over a quarter of the regular season, extending until around April 16. Consequently, he stands to forfeit approximately $726,465 of his $3.19 million salary for this season.
Thompson will be suspended on Wednesday, during the Cavaliers' game against the Bucks. Image Source: Instagram@realtristan13
In addition, Thompson is a seasoned player who won an NBA championship with the Cavaliers in 2016. He's played for various teams like the Boston Celtics, Sacramento Kings, Indiana Pacers, Chicago Bulls, and Los Angeles Lakers. He came back to Cleveland in 2023 and is currently averaging 6.4 points and 5.9 rebounds per game this season.
Thompson hasn't said anything about his suspension, and neither have his representatives or the Cavaliers. But on social media, some fans and analysts are upset and critical. They're also wondering why he would use performance-enhancing drugs, especially considering his age and the role he plays on the team.
Tristan Thompson with her lovely daughter. Image Source: Instagram@realtristan13
Not just that, he is famous not just for basketball but also for his personal life. He's the dad of two kids with reality TV star Khloé Kardashian. Their relationship had problems and ended in 2022 because of cheating rumors. Kardashian hasn't talked about Thompson's suspension either.
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Thompson getting suspended is the newest case of NBA players breaking anti-drug rules. Just last December, Deandre Ayton from the Phoenix Suns got a 25-game suspension for using a diuretic. In November 2023, John Collins from the Atlanta Hawks got a 25-game suspension for testing positive for growth hormone.
These situations are making people worry about how well the NBA's anti-drug program works. The program started in 1983 and was updated in 2017. Its goal is to stop and catch players using forbidden stuff like steroids, stimulants, diuretics, and masking agents. It also offers education and counseling for players dealing with substance abuse problems.
The NBA and the National Basketball Players Association (NBPA) work together to run the anti-drug program. This program involves random tests, penalties, and ways for players to appeal. Both the NBA and the players' association can review and change the program as part of their agreement.
But, some experts think the program should be more open and consistent. They also say it could benefit from working closely with other sports leagues and anti-doping agencies.
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