NBA Suspends Tristan Thompson for 25 Games: Violation of Anti-Drug Policy and Impact on Cleveland Cavaliers
On Tuesday, the NBA handed down a 25-game suspension without pay to Tristan Thompson, a forward with the Cleveland Cavaliers, for violating the organization’s anti-drug policy.
The following was released by the NBA: pic.twitter.com/oqNXP7Zvak
— NBA Communications (@NBAPR) January 23, 2024
Thompson tested positive for the banned substances SARM LDG-4033 and ibutamoren. The use of ibutamoren, a human growth hormone known for promoting lean body mass, is prohibited by the league due to its performance-enhancing properties. Similarly, SARM LGD-4033 (ligandrol), an anabolic steroid, is commonly used by weightlifters and bodybuilders to increase muscle mass.
In the current NBA season, the 32-year-old Thompson has played 36 games for the Cleveland Cavaliers, averaging 3.8 points and 3.9 rebounds per game. He will begin serving his suspension on Wednesday when the Cavaliers face the Milwaukee Bucks. According to spotrac.com, Thompson is eligible to return on March 16, and he will forfeit $726,465 in salary during the suspension period.
In response to the suspension, the Cavaliers issued a statement expressing their support for Thompson while also expressing disappointment in the news surrounding his violation of the anti-drug policy. Throughout the suspension, Thompson will be allowed to travel and practice with the team but must leave the premises at least two hours before game time.
Tristan Thompson rejoined the Cavaliers in the offseason, marking his second tenure with the organization. He was initially selected by the Cavaliers with the fourth overall pick in the 2011 NBA Draft. In 2016, he and LeBron James played crucial roles in securing an NBA championship for Cleveland. Over his 13-year career, Thompson has played for various NBA teams, including the Los Angeles Lakers, Boston Celtics, Sacramento Kings, Chicago Bulls, and Indiana Pacers.
