The NBA informed the Phoenix Suns and DeAndre Ayton that he was issued a 25-game suspension as a result of violating the league's Anti-Drug Policy.
Ayton tested positive for was a diuretic and he did not test positive for a banned substance. The NBPA is working with Ayton to ‘fast-track' the arbitration process in hopes of reducing the length of the suspension using the ‘unintentional ingestion' provision of the CBA.
Ayton released a statement in response to the suspension that he was issued, stating that he made an ‘unintentional mistake' and is working with the NBPA to navigate the arbitration process.
“I want to apologize to my family, the entire Suns organization, my teammates, partners, our fans and the Phoenix community. This was an unintentional mistake and unfortunately I put something in my body that I was completely unaware of.”
“I do understand the unfortunate impact that this has on so many others, and for that I am deeply sorry. I’m extremely disappointed that I’ve let my team down. I will continue to work with the NBPA to go through arbitration and am hopeful of a positive resolution.”
The regular season began on a strong note for Ayton as he recorded 18 points, 11 rebounds, and four blocks in the Suns' 124-95 win over the Sacramento Kings. He is coming off a rookie season with averages of 16.3 points and 10.3 rebounds.
The suspension will begin on Friday when the Suns take on the Denver Nuggets.
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