The NBA levied a 25-game suspension against Brooklyn Nets forward Wilson Chandler on Thursday morning for the use of performance enhancing drugs. There was some confusion surrounding the charge, so the Michigan native took some time to provide a statement on the matter.
Via ESPN's Adrian Wojnarowski:
During my injury rehab process, before I signed with the Nets, I was prescribed a treatment that included small doses of a substance recently added to the NBA’s prohibited substance list. I did not realize this substance was banned, and neither did the doctor.
I accept responsibility and apologize to my Nets teammates, coaches, front office and fans for this mistake. I will continue to work hard to prepare for the upcoming season.
The substance that Wilson failed for is known as Ipamoreline, which is basically a growth hormone. According to a report from ESPN's Bobby Marks, this suspension will cost him a total of $582,898.
The 25-game suspension will cost Wilson Chandler $23,316 per game and a total of $582,898. The Brooklyn forward will start the regular season on the active list and moved to the suspension list after the 5th game (Nov. 1 vs. Houston) of the regular season. The Nets with 15 guaranteed contracts can add a 16th player after the game against the Rockets. Brooklyn plays the following night (Nov. 2) at Detroit. Chandler will be removed off the suspension list for the Dec. 15 game vs. Philadelphia. Chandler can participate during training camp and play in the Nets pre-season games.
Chandler, now 32 years of age, split the 2018-19 season with the Sixers and Clippers. He made 36 appearances with Philly (32 starts), racking up averages of 6.7 points on 44.0 percent shooting from the field (39.0 percent from beyond the arc), 4.7 rebounds and 2.0 assists in 26.4 minutes per outing.