NBA Players Score Big with Cannabis Investment and Policy Changes
In a historic collective bargaining agreement between the NBA and its players association, players are set to benefit from two groundbreaking changes related to cannabis. Firstly, the deal allows players to invest in and promote cannabis companies. Secondly, marijuana will be removed from the league’s drug testing program. These changes, pending ratification by the union and team governors, mark a significant shift in the NBA’s approach to cannabis.
Cannabis Off the Drug Testing Program
The tentative agreement would remove marijuana from the league’s drug testing program, as reported by The Athletic sports media site. This move follows a growing trend of acceptance and legalization of marijuana for medicinal and recreational purposes across the United States. NBA stars, like Kevin Durant, have been outspoken advocates for cannabis use, aiming to change the narrative around marijuana.
A Win for the Cannabis Industry
This tentative agreement provides a significant endorsement for the cannabis industry and opens up a new source of funding for marijuana companies, which have faced challenges in a tight funding market. The seven-year agreement would mark a turning point for the NBA, which has previously penalized players for marijuana consumption and barred them from participating in cannabis sponsorships or business ventures.
Investing in NBA and WNBA Teams
In addition to the new cannabis policy, the proposed labor agreement would permit players to invest in NBA and WNBA teams. This move would further solidify the relationship between players and the league, allowing them to benefit from their association with professional basketball.
Previous Stance on Cannabis
Historically, the NBA has maintained a strict stance on marijuana use. Players faced testing, fines, and suspensions if found to have used the substance. However, as more states have legalized cannabis and attitudes have evolved, the league’s policy had become increasingly outdated.
Kevin Durant: Changing the Narrative
Phoenix Suns’ Kevin Durant has been an outspoken advocate for cannabis use. In a David Letterman interview last year, he revealed that he started using marijuana at 22. Durant compared its effects to having a glass of wine, as it clears distractions from the brain. He also expressed his desire to “change the narrative” surrounding marijuana, citing the injustice of people serving lengthy jail sentences for selling the substance.
Other Changes in the CBA
The collective bargaining agreement also includes other significant changes, such as an in-season tournament, long desired by Commissioner Adam Silver, and a requirement for players to appear in at least 65 games to be eligible for top individual awards, such as Most Valuable Player. A second luxury tax level has been introduced, affecting the way teams can use their midlevel exception to sign players.
Looking Ahead
The NBA’s progressive step in removing marijuana from its drug testing system is a welcome change that reflects the evolving attitudes towards cannabis in society. As the league continues to adapt and grow, it will be interesting to see if other professional sports organizations follow suit.
How do you think the new cannabis policy will impact players and the NBA as a whole? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
