Nets’ Russell cited for marijuana possession
Brooklyn Nets point guard D’Angelo Russell was cited for marijuana possession after being detained Wednesday at New York’s LaGuardia Airport following a baggage check, a spokesperson for the New York Port Authority Police said.
Russell was en route to Louisville, Kentucky, where his father lives.
The spokesman said Russell was summoned for possession of less than 50 grams of marijuana and later released.
The marijuana was found inside a hidden compartment of an AriZona Iced Tea can that was in Russell’s possession, a TSA spokesperson told Newsday.
In a statement, the Nets said they were aware of the situation and gathering more information.
The 23-year-old Russell is set to become a restricted free agent this offseason.
He helped lead Brooklyn to 42 wins while making his All-Star Game debut this past season. He did so by averaging career bests in points (21.1 per game) and assists (7.0) as the Nets reached the playoffs for the first time since 2015, ultimately losing to the Philadelphia 76ers in the first round. Teammates and coach Kenny Atkinson alike had lauded Russell for his leadership, improved conditioning and professional approach to the game.
The former No. 2 overall draft pick of the Lakers, Russell has career averages of 16.5 points and 5.1 rebounds, while shooting 41.9 percent from the field and 35.3 percent from 3-point range over four NBA seasons.
According to the NBA collective bargaining agreement, a player who violates the league’s marijuana policy enters a “marijuana program” upon first violation, can be fined $25,000 upon second violation and can be suspended five games upon a third violation.