NBA suspends Hawks’ Collins for violating drug policy

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10:246/11/2019, Wednesday
U: 6/11/2019, Wednesday
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File photo: Mar 16, 2019; Boston, MA, USA; Atlanta Hawks forward John Collins (20) dunks as Boston Celtics forward Jayson Tatum (0) looks on during the second half at TD Garden
File photo: Mar 16, 2019; Boston, MA, USA; Atlanta Hawks forward John Collins (20) dunks as Boston Celtics forward Jayson Tatum (0) looks on during the second half at TD Garden

Atlanta Hawks' forward John Collins suspended for 25 games

Atlanta Hawks forward has been suspended for 25 games for violating the National Basketball Association’s (NBA) anti-drug policy, the association announced on Tuesday.

"The NBA announced Collins, 22, tested positive for Peptide-2. He is Atlanta's leading rebounder and second-leading scorer," the association said in a statement.

The statement said that Collins is the third player to be handed 25-game suspensions without pay for drug violations this season.

“On August 29, the league suspended Brooklyn Nets forward Wilson Chandler for testing positive for Ipamorelin, a drug that increases the release of growth hormone,” it added.

"First I want to apologize to my teammates, the Hawks organization, our fans, partners and community as a whole for this situation. I understand the impact this matter has on what we are trying to achieve together this season, and I am incredibly frustrated and disappointed in myself for putting all us in this position", Collins told sports broadcaster ESPN.

#Atlanta Hawks
#Basketball
#John Collins
#NBA