Bobby Portis Suspended 25 Games For Anti-Drug Violation—Says It Was an 'Honest Mistake'

Milwaukee Bucks forward Bobby Portis Jr. faces a 25-game suspension following his violation of the NBA/NBPA Anti-Drug Program. The league formally announced the decision, stating that it was due to Portis testing positive for Tramadol, an opioid painkiller that is prohibited under league policy.

The suspension is effective immediately, starting with the Bucks' game against the Los Angeles Clippers. With Milwaukee battling for playoff spots, Portis' absence might have important consequences for the team's playoff hopes.

Why Was Bobby Portis Suspended?

Bobby Portis Suspended 25 Games For Anti-Drug Violation—Says It Was

The NBA's suspension of Portis is due to his accidental ingestion of Tramadol, a prescription painkiller. According to his agent Mark Bartelstein, Portis accidentally ingested Tramadol, thinking that he was taking Toradol—an authorized pain reliever frequently taken by athletes to treat inflammation and pain.

"I am devastated for Bobby right now because he made an honest mistake and the ramifications of it are incredibly significant," Bartelstein told ESPN's Shams Charania. "Bobby unintentionally took a pain medication called Tramadol, thinking he was taking a pain medication called Toradol.

Bartelstein went on to say that the confusion arose when Portis was administered the pill by an assistant who had a legitimate prescription for Tramadol but mislabeled it as Toradol.

Bobby Portis Makes Public Apology

In response to the league's confirmation, Portis issued a public apology through a heartfelt statement acknowledging his fault and taking responsibility for the accident.

According to Hoops Rumors, Portis explained that he took the medication for pain and swelling due to his elbow injury. He said that he made an "honest" mistake by taking the unapproved anti-inflammatory pill.

"I feel horrible and recognize that I'm responsible for what I put in my body," the former Razorback said in a statement.

Portis reiterated his frustration at missing time with his teammates and pledged to come back stronger for the Bucks' playoff run. He thanked his team, the whole organization, and the fans for their support.

Bucks GM and Team Back Portis

The Milwaukee Bucks' general manager Jon Horst issued a statement concerning the suspension of Portis as well, where he confirmed the team's commitment to backing him despite what transpired.

Although Portis faces an unfortunate punishment at this time, Horst wants him to know that the Bucks office fully supports him. They hope that Bobby will come back stronger for the Milwaukee team.

How Portis' Suspension Affects the Bucks

Portis has been a major contributor for Milwaukee this year, averaging 13.7 points, 8.3 rebounds, and 2.2 assists in 25.2 minutes per game. His scoring and rebounding off the bench have been instrumental to the team's success.

The Bucks, with the fifth seed in the Eastern Conference at 29-24, now must contend with holding that spot without one of their most consistent performers. In Portis' absence, newly added big man Jericho Sims is likely to see more playing time, as will Taurean Prince.

Also, Portis' suspension will enable the Bucks to transfer him to the suspended list once he has played out five games, clearing a roster spot until he is activated again.

Bobby Portis' Contract Situation

Portis has two years left on a four-year, $48.6 million deal he signed with Milwaukee. He also has a player option for the 2025-26 season at $13.4 million. The suspension will cost Portis a significant amount of money as he stands to lose pay during the duration of the 25-game suspension.

This could be the perfect time for Kyle Kuzma to step up and embrace himself in a different uniform.