It has just been confirmed that the NBA will only be testing players for performance-enhancing drugs or PED’s once the season resumes in July. This means that said tests will not include recreational substances.
This is via a report posted by the New York Times:
Random anti-drug testing will resume July 7, but only for performance-enhancing drugs and diuretics.
This development leads to one simple question: is the NBA saying that players are now allowed to use recreational drugs such as marijuana? The answer to his query, according to the league itself, is a resounding no. They may not be testing the doobie, but they made sure to remind the players about steering clear of any and all illegal substances.
Although no testing would be done for recreational substances, the union memo noted that players remain subject to discipline for possession or use of prohibited recreational substances including marijuana, which is not legal in Florida for recreational use.
It remains unclear why the NBA opted against just testing for marijuana anyway. To some extent, not doing so — and making their decision public — seems to send the wrong message.
We’re guessing not too many players — if any — will be reacting to this news bit. Doing so would be treading dangerous waters. A simple like on social media might be misinterpreted as a celebratory reaction. This might just place them on the league’s drug watch list, and a “random” drug test might ensue. Better keep your reactions to yourselves for this one, guys.
The point here is this: keep off the (recreational) drugs, kids.
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