The NBA suspended Hedo Turkoglu for 20 games on Wednesday after he tested positive for an anabolic steroid, according to the league's PR department. The Orlando Magic forward tested positive for methenolone, according to Howard Beck of the New York Times.
Hedo Turkoglu suspended 20 games for violating anti-drug program
Orlando Magic forward Hedo Turkoglu has been suspended 20 games for an anabolic steroid.
USA TODAY Sports
Turkoglu and Orlando general manager Rob Hennigan said that the forward unknowingly took the steroid while in his native Turkey, according to a release through the team.
“While I was back home in Turkey this past summer, I was given a medication by my trainer to help recover more quickly from a shoulder injury,” Türkoğlu said. “I didn’t know that this was a banned substance and didn’t check before taking it.”
Turkoglu accepted responsibility for the punishment.
Turkoglu ‘s suspension means the Magic, who have a 15-36 record, are without their versatile forward until the final 11 games of the schedule this season. Averaging 2.9 points and 2.4 rebounds per game, Turkoglu has been dealing with a back issue and will address the media Wednesday afternoon.
Turkoglu’s role with Orlando has been minimal during the veteran’s 13th NBA season. He has played in just 11 games this year and averages 17 minutes when available. He is being paid $11.8 million this season.
Methenolone is the same anabolic steroid that the New York Yankees’ Alex Rodriguez tested positive for in 2003 when he was a member of the Texas Rangers
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