Tristan Thompson, a player for the Cleveland Cavaliers, recently shared personal details about what happened after he received a 25-game suspension from the NBA for breaking the league’s anti-drug rules.
“When they told me, I was surprised,” Thompson said. “But it happened, and I’m not dwelling on the past. My teammates have been supportive throughout.”
Thompson also admitted to being responsible for his actions that led to his suspension.
“I took responsibility,” Thompson said about telling his teammates about the suspension. “I let them know I made a mistake and would be out for a while. They needed to step up in my absence. As a leader, you have to show up in both good and bad times. Even when you’re wrong, you have to lead. That’s the standard we set in Cleveland. We take responsibility and bounce back when we fall.”
Due to his suspension, Thompson hasn’t played for the Cavaliers since January. However, he still has the respect of his teammates. Donovan Mitchell mentioned gaining even more respect for Thompson after he took responsibility for his actions.
“It was hard to see him get emotional,” Mitchell said. “T.T. is my guy. He’s a great person. We support each other. He showed courage by admitting his mistake to us. I respect him even more for that.”
Although Thompson’s playing time has been limited this season, he has been effective in scoring and rebounding. In his last game before the suspension, he contributed four points, five rebounds, one assist, one block, and one steal.
Jarrett Allen’s strong performances have helped the Cavaliers cope with Thompson’s absence. Allen has been averaging high numbers in points, rebounds, and blocks in March.
Thompson spent the first nine seasons of his NBA career with the Cavaliers after being drafted by them in 2011. He was known for his exceptional offensive rebounding skills during his time with the team.
