Phoenix Suns’s Deandre Ayton Handed a 25-Game Suspension after a Failed Drug Test

Phoenix Suns Centre Deandre Ayton is suspended for 25 games after failing drug test.

ESPN reported that he has been guilty of using diuretic- a drug that can mask the performance enhancing drug use.

Ayton would lose $2.17 million over a 25-game suspension.

“I want to apologize to my family, the entire Suns organization, my teammates, partners, our fans and the Phoenix community,” Ayton was quoted as saying by ESPN. “This was an unintentional mistake and unfortunately I put something in my body that I was completely unaware of.”

Ayton, 21, was the first overall pick in the 2018 NBA Draft. He also became a part of NBA All-rookie first team for the 2018/19 season. His suspension now has come at a wrong time for the team and the National Basketball Players association are reported to be planning to file arbitration papers on behalf of Dayton.

“I do understand the unfortunate impact that this has on so many others, and for that I am deeply sorry,” he further said. “I’m extremely disappointed that I’ve let my team down. I will continue to work with the NBPA to go through arbitration and am hopeful of a positive resolution.”

After the ban, the team also issued a statement.

“On behalf of the Phoenix Suns organization, (coach) Monty Williams and I are disappointed in the actions by Deandre Ayton that led to his testing positive for a banned diuretic and subsequent suspension by the NBA. This does not uphold the standards and principles we have set for the team,” Suns general manager James Jones said.

“Deandre has expressed his deepest remorse. While he is suspended we remain committed to his growth and development on and off the court. His actions are not taken lightly, and we are committed to ensuring that Deandre understands the profound impact it has had on the team, organization, and Suns community.”