3 NBA players who have been caught with weed
NBA players aren't shy about sharing their interests or what keeps them busy during their free time. Consuming weed is legal in almost half of the United States now, and athletes use it to relax. But sometimes they've gotten in trouble for doing so.
There have been players who have been vocal about using marijuana as a source of relaxation during their taxing season. According to NBC Sports, an estimate of 50-85% of players use the plant.
Former commissioner David Stern, who retired in 2014 and died in 2020, said that he wants the NBA to remove cannabis from the ban list. He once had a chance to sit down with former player Al Harrington, who has expanded his weed business as it helped him recover from various injuries.
"I'm now at the point where, personally, I think (cannabis) probably should be removed from the ban list," Stern said. "I think there is universal agreement that marijuana for medical purposes should be completely legal."
Weed is only legal in 21 states, which makes it difficult for athletes who are constantly traveling to bring the substance with them at all times. With that, here are three hoopers who have been caught with the controversial plant.
D'Angelo Russell
In 2019, D'Angelo Russell was still with the Brooklyn Nets and was trying to travel to his hometown of Louisville, Kentucky. While at LaGuardia Airport, he was stopped after airport security caught him transporting marijuana in his checked bag. Russell disguised it as a can of Arizona Iced Tea, but was caught.
Nets All-Star D'Angelo Russell was caught with weed in his bag in a stash box designed to look like a can of Arizona iced tea at LaGuardia Airport.
Details: cmplx.co/x8PFS0c https://t.co/oi2Sac9MmF
He was charged with possession of marijuana under 50 grams.
"We have been made aware of the situation involving D’Angelo Russell and are in the process of gathering more information at this time." the Nets said in a statement.
Also read: "What people don't understand about marijuana, which they don't, what they want to continuously label me for" - J.R. Smith on fans making fun of him for iconic goof-up in 2018 NBA Finals
Alex Caruso
Alex Caruso was arrested for possession of marijuana and drug paraphernalia in 2021, when he was still with the LA Lakers. He was also released the same day he was arrested but was charged with a misdemeanor. Caruso was arrested in the state of Texas, which hasn't legalized weed.
L.A. Lakers Guard Alex Caruso Busted For Weed Possession In Texas dlvr.it/S2GjCD
According to reports, an herb grinder and two ounces of marijuana were found in his bags. He was later on released after posting bond.
Zach Randolph
in the summer of 2017, Zach Randolph was arrested for possession of marijuana with intent to sell. According to multiple sources, there were "roughly two pounds" of marijuana that was caught. He was also part of a rowdy group that vandalized six police cars.
Kings' Zach Randolph has been charged with 2 misdemeanors following weed arrest in LA, per @TMZ_Sports https://t.co/DZWeqYG6Fv
Randolph was held on $20,000 in bail and later got a chance to play basketball again. The two-time All-Star is now retired from the NBA.
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