Cavs player Tristan Thompson suspended for 25 games for violating NBA’s anti-drug program

The NBA suspends Tristan Thompson of the Cleveland Cavaliers for 25 games without pay for violating the league’s anti-drug program.

Thompson tested positive for two banned substances, according to Tuesday Statement from the league.

Ibutamoren is used to promote the secretion of human growth hormone and is banned by the league due to its ability to increase lean body mass. SARM LGD-4033 (Ligandrol) is a selective androgen receptor modulator, another anabolic compound.

It’s unclear how long Thompson was using the drugs. The 32-year-old has averaged 3.8 points and 3.9 rebounds in 36 games for Cleveland this season. This is his first suspension and he will forfeit $726,465, according to Spotrac.

The NBA has agreed to stop testing its players for marijuana in April 2023. This was a continuation of the league’s decision to stop testing in March 2020 due to the pandemic. Random drug testing for human growth hormone and performance-enhancing drugs resumed in the “NBA bubble” and has continued since then.

In addition, the league reserves the right to conduct tests for so-called “drugs of abuse” such as methamphetamine, opiates and cocaine.

Thompson was likely put to the test on Monday following the Cavaliers’ 126-99 road win over the Orlando Magic, recording four points, five rebounds, one assist, one steal and one block in 21 minutes.

This is Thompson’s second stint with Cleveland after signing with the team in the offseason. He won the championship with LeBron James and the Cavaliers in 2016.

During his 13-year career, he also played for the Los Angeles Lakers, Boston Celtics, Sacramento Kings, Chicago Bulls and Indiana Pacers.

Thompson will not have an immediate opportunity to speak to reporters as his suspension begins with Wednesday’s game against the Milwaukee Bucks.