NBA: Chauncey Billups encouraged some teammates to use cannabis

Last week, we reported on the statements made by Steve Kerr, coach of the Golden State Warriors, on the therapeutic use of cannabis. Last Friday, Chauncey Billups discussed the topic on ESPN’s NBA Countdown.

Chauncey Billups, basketball and the rigors of repeated physical exertion are nothing new to him: a 17-year career spanning 1,043 games, an average of 15.2 points per game, and five All-Star Game selections. The retired basketball player was responding to comments made by Phil Jackson, president of the New Jersey Nets. The president of the franchise, which is currently 14th^ème from the Eastern Conference told *Rolling Stone*: «There’s a cannabis culture in the NBA; we’ve tried to control it, and it’s not working. We need to find other ways to regulate it.»

Players who are uninhibited and focused on the game

Chauncey Billups says that using cannabis helped some of his teammates play better: «They played better because of it. It can affect a lot of things, especially anxiety. So it helped them relax a little and focus on the game. I wanted them to do it. I’d rather they smoke than drink alcohol.» However, changes in behavior and improved performance are among the main reasons cannabis is banned on the court. The penalty for using recreational or medical cannabis can range from a simple reprimand to a fine of 25,000$ and a 5- to 10-game suspension.

Jalen Rose, who played 16 NBA seasons and was also a guest on the show, says that the ban on cannabis has a direct impact on players« alcohol consumption. Tracy McGrady says, »Let’s be honest. Players already smoke; these guys (Billups and Rose) have been there—smoking during the season happens.”.

The host then asks how to prevent players from smoking weed, and Chauncey Billups replies, «There’s always a way to regulate things. Alcohol is legal, yet you can’t drive under its influence. When it comes to protecting your investment and protecting the players, medical cannabis is something that can help. There need to be discussions between executives, players, and professional organizations.»

A debate that is therefore likely to continue in the NBA, at the‘like the NFL".

Théo Caillart