Who woulda thought it? After a great year behind him, making it to the NBA Finals in a nail biting challenge against the L.A. Lakers, Rashard Lewis would be careless enough to put himself in a position to get suspended. Now I’m not sure how exactly he can get in trouble for taking what he calls an ‘over the counter’ drug, but I don’t make the rules. If he knew better, than he is not very smart. He will now miss out on an alleged $1.6 million dollars in salary and have to join a rehab program called SPED. He better be praying that he doesn’t fail a second time, it could lead to a 25 game suspension.
According to NBA.com: Rashard Lewis of the Orlando Magic has been suspended without pay for ten games for violating the terms of the NBA/NBPA Anti-Drug Program by testing positive for an elevated testosterone level, it was announced today by the NBA. Lewis’ suspension will begin with the first game of the 2009-10 NBA regular season for which he is eligible and physically able to play.
After his suspension Rashard made the following statements:
“First and foremost I take full responsibility for the situation and accept the corresponding penalty.
Toward the end of the season I took an over-the-counter supplement which at the time I did not realize included a substance banned by the NBA.
I apologize to Magic fans, my teammates and this organization for not doing the research that should come with good judgment.
I hope this unintentional mistake will not reflect poorly on our team and its great character.
I hope every athlete can learn from my mistake that supplements, no matter how innocent they seem, should only be taken after consulting an expert in the field.”
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