NBA Players Won’t Have To Take Drug Tests During Coronavirus Hiatus

NBA Players Reportedly Won’t Have To Take Drug Tests During Coronavirus Hiatus

While many were shocked when the NBA canceled the rest of its season amid the coronavirus outbreak, the league has reportedly made another head-turning change.

According to Yahoo! Sports, NBA players will not have to undergo drug tests during the league’s hiatus amid the coronavirus.

Usually, based on the collective bargaining agreement (CBA), players have to take

“six random, unannounced urine drug tests during each season and off-season.”

Players are typically tested for drugs like marijuana, steroids and other drugs that could boost their performance on the court. If they test positive, they won’t be able to play for 25 games, if it’s their first violation. If it’s their second, they’re suspended for 55 games. They are suspended for at least two years for a third violation, or if they test positive for heroin or cocaine.

The NBA suspended its season shortly after Utah Jazz player Rudy Gobert tested positive for the condition.

Rudy Gobert

It said in a statement,

“The NBA is suspending game play following the conclusion of [Wednesday night’s] schedule of games until further notice. The NBA will use this hiatus to determine next steps for moving forward in regard to the coronavirus pandemic.”

What are your thoughts on the changes? Tell us in the comments.