Basketball New Zealand (BBNZ) has reported an anti-doping rule violation against the Respondent after his sample tested positive for the prohibited substance Cannabis. Respondent admitted the violation and explained he had used cannabis a week before the match during a momentary lapse on a night out. The Tribunal accepted that Respondent did not use cannabis with the intention of enhancing his sports performance.
The Sports Tribunal of New Zealand decides to impose a ban on the Respondent, from 15 February 2007 until 21 March 2008, from competing in any events and competitions conducted by or under auspices of BBNZ.
However, the Tribunal will suspend the ban if agreement is reached between Respondent, BBNZ, the Hawk’s franchise and Drug Free Sport on a suitable drug education programme in which Respondent will participate for a period of not less than one month. This programme will need to be substantially completed by 21 March 2008.
To obtain the suspension of the Tribunal’s ban, Respondent will need to satisfy Drug Free Sport of both his suitability for and commitment to such a programme and that it be of benefit to Drug Free Sport.
