The battle over HGH testing was evidently won by the NBA—testing will begin during training camp next fall, it was jointly announced Thursday by the League and the players’ union.
Random, unannounced blood tests for human growth hormone will take place three times a year, two during the season and once in the offseason.
Per the AP:
A positive test will result in a 20-game suspension for a first violation and a 45-game ban for a second violation. A player would be dismissed and disqualified from the NBA for his third violation.
Owners and players had agreed during collective bargaining negotiations in 2011 to determine a process for how HGH testing could be implemented. The league hasn’t previously done blood testing.
