NBA team Charlotte Hornets centre Al Jefferson was banned for five games for violating the Anti-Drug Programme.
Jefferson, who has been sidelined another week or two by a left calf strain, will miss the first five games for which he is eligible and physically able to play, Xinhua news agency reported.
No details were given about the nature of the violation or the medication involved.
"We are disappointed in Al's decisions that led to this suspension," the Hornets said in a statement after the announcement on Wednesday.
"As an organisation, we do not condone this. We have addressed this with Al. He is regretful and understands that we expect him to learn from this mistake."
You’ve reached your limit of {{free_limit}} free articles this month.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
Already subscribed? Log in
Subscribe to read the full story →
Smart Quarterly
₹900
3 Months
₹300/Month
Smart Essential
₹2,700
1 Year
₹225/Month
Super Saver
₹3,900
2 Years
₹162/Month
Renews automatically, cancel anytime
Here’s what’s included in our digital subscription plans
Exclusive premium stories online
Over 30 premium stories daily, handpicked by our editors
Complimentary Access to The New York Times
News, Games, Cooking, Audio, Wirecutter & The Athletic
Business Standard Epaper
Digital replica of our daily newspaper — with options to read, save, and share
Curated Newsletters
Insights on markets, finance, politics, tech, and more delivered to your inbox
Market Analysis & Investment Insights
In-depth market analysis & insights with access to The Smart Investor
Archives
Repository of articles and publications dating back to 1997
Ad-free Reading
Uninterrupted reading experience with no advertisements
Seamless Access Across All Devices
Access Business Standard across devices — mobile, tablet, or PC, via web or app