Second-year guard/forward Didi Louzada has been suspended for 25 games by the NBA for violating the NBA/NBPA’s anti-drug policy.
It is reported that Louzada tested positive for drostanolone and testosterone.
Louzada provided a statement to ESPN that stated he had taken the banned substances without his knowledge during an offseason visit to Brazil, based on the recommendation of a nutritionist.
“When I was in Brazil during the offseason, I consulted a nutritionist who recommended I take some vitamins and supplements,” Louzada said in the statement. “Because she has a history of working with professional athletes, I would never have imagined that any of those substances would be banned or could be contaminated. Once I learned of the positive test, I immediately cooperated completely with the league and union to help all of us understand what exactly occurred.
“I would never knowingly take anything that violates NBA rules. I accept my responsibility in this situation. I deeply regret that this happened and I apologize to my team, my teammates, and Pelicans fans for this mistake.”
Pelicans executive vice president of basketball operations released a statement in response to the suspension as well.
“On behalf of the New Orleans Pelicans organization, we were disappointed to learn that Didi Louzada violated the NBA/NBPA Anti-Drug Program,” said Griffin. “After speaking with Didi, we are confident that he understands the full gravity of the situation and regrets the decisions that led to the suspension. We fully support Didi on and off the court as he learns and grows from this experience.”
Louzada, a second round pick in 2019, has appeared in two games this season for the Pelicans (2-14).