The NBA announced Wednesday that Charlotte Hornets center Al Jefferson is facing a five-game suspension after violating terms of the NBA/NBPA Anti-Drug Program.
Jefferson, currently nursing a strained calf, issued an apology.
The big guy is putting up averages of 13.7 points and 6.4 rebounds for the 12-8 Hornets.
From the press release:
Hornets’ statement: “We are disappointed in Al’s decisions that led to this suspension. As an organization, we do not condone this behavior. We have addressed this with Al. He is regretful and understands that we expect him to learn from this mistake.”
Jefferson’s statement: “I want to apologize to the Hornets organization, our owner, my teammates and my coaches for the poor decision that I made. I know I have let people down, especially the Hornets fans that have been so supportive of me since I arrived in Charlotte two years ago. I am blessed to be able to play the game that I love for a living and I do not take that for granted. From the bottom of my heart, I am truly sorry, and I am committed to making smarter decisions in the future.”
