Suns center Deandre Ayton has been suspended for 25 games after he reportedly tested positive for a diuretic, the NBA announced Thursday.
Ayton was suspended without pay for "violating the terms of the NBA/NBPA Anti-Drug Program," the league said in an official release.
His suspension will begin with tomorrow's game against the Denver Nuggets.
Suns General Manager James Jones said in a statement that he and Coach Monty Williams were "disappointed" in Ayton's actions that led to the positive test.
“Deandre has expressed his deepest remorse. While he is suspended we remain committed to his growth and development on and off the court," the statement continued.
"His actions are not taken lightly, and we are committed to ensuring that Deandre understands the profound impact it has had on the team, organization, and Suns community.”
Ayton said in a statement released by the team that it was an "unintentional mistake."
"Unfortunately I put something in my body that I was completely unaware of," part of Ayton's statement read.
"I do understand the unfortunate impact that this has on so many others, and for that I am deeply sorry. I'm extremely disappointed that I've let my team down. I will continue to work with the Players’ Union (NBPA) to go through the arbitration process and am hopeful for a positive resolution.”
The news was first reported by ESPN's Adrian Wojnarowski.
Ayton was the league's No. 1 draft pick in 2018.
12 News has reached out to the Suns for comment.