NBA center Tristan Thompson of the Cleveland Cavaliers received a 25-game suspension without pay on Tuesday for violating the league’s anti-drug policy. The 32-year-old tested positive for ibutamoren, a growth hormone, and SARM LGD-4033, commonly used in muscle enhancement by bodybuilders and weightlifters, according to the league.
Thompson’s suspension will commence on Wednesday, coinciding with the Cavaliers’ game against Milwaukee, as they aim to extend their eight-game winning streak. No immediate comments were provided by Thompson or the Cavaliers.
During the suspension period, Thompson is permitted to travel and practice, with the only restriction being that he must leave the arena at least two hours before tipoff for any games. Currently in his second stint with the Cavaliers, Thompson was originally drafted by them as the No. 4 overall pick in the 2011 draft. The 6-foot-11 center is highly regarded in Cleveland, having been a part of the 2016 NBA championship team, which secured the city’s first major professional sports title since 1964.