Basketball

Cleveland Cavaliers center Tristan Thompson has been suspended for 25 games without pay for violating the NBA’s anti-drug policy. The ban comes after Thompson tested positive for the growth hormone ibutamoren and SARM LGD-4033, which is used for muscle enhancement. The 32-year-old’s suspension begins with immediate effect and will be able to return to play on March 16 against the Houston Rockets. A Cavaliers statement said that they support the NBA’s anti-drug program and added that they will support Thompson during the ban. The 2016 NBA champion will be allowed to travel and practice with the team but must be out of the arena at least two hours before tip off. This is Thompson’s second stint with Cleveland after spending his first nine seasons in the league there and was re-signed during the off-season. In between both stints he has played at the Boston Celtics, Sacramento Kings, Indiana Pacers, Chicago Bulls and Los Angeles Lakers.