Phoenix Suns Player Suspended 25 Games for Failed Drug Test

Deandre Ayton, the Phoenix Suns’ first pick in the 2018 NBA draft, was suspended 25 games on Oct 24 after testing positive for a diuretic.

The NBA’s anti-drug program involves random testing for marijuana, steroids and other drugs, The Washington Post reported.

Diuretics are oftentimes used to remove, or mask, drugs in the body. Many retail products that assist drug users with passing a drug test contain diuretics.

In the NBA, a failed drug test can prompt different outcomes — from a warning or a lifelong ban — depending on the drug.

“This does not uphold the standards and principles we have set for the team,” said Suns GM, James Jones. “Deandre has expressed his deepest remorse.”

Ayton will have to forfeit approximately $2.1 million of his $9.6 million salary due to the 25-game suspension.

Photo: Josh Knowles/Flickr CC2.0 Modified.