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Bobby Portis Suspended 25 Games for Taking Banned Painkiller

The Milwaukee Bucks forward tested positive for Tramadol, which his agent claims was taken by mistake due to a mix-up with an approved medication.

Milwaukee Bucks forward Bobby Portis dribbles against the Atlanta Hawks at State Farm Arena
Milwaukee Bucks' Bobby Portis Jr. (9) talks with official Suyash Mehta during the first half of an NBA basketball game Monday, Feb. 10, 2025, in Milwaukee. (AP Photo/Andy Manis)
Bucks forward Bobby Portis gestures after making a shot against the Timberwolves on Feb. 12, 2025, in Minneapolis. (AP Photo/Abbie Parr)
Bobby Portis Jr. #9 of the Milwaukee Bucks reacts after hitting a three-point basket against the Atlanta Hawks during the third quarter at State Farm Arena on March 30, 2024, in Atlanta, Georgia.

Overview

  • Bobby Portis, Milwaukee Bucks forward, has been suspended for 25 games without pay after testing positive for the banned painkiller Tramadol.
  • Portis and his agent, Mark Bartelstein, stated the substance was taken unintentionally, believing it to be Toradol, an NBA-approved medication he had used previously.
  • The suspension will cost Portis $2.85 million in salary and prevent him from playing until April 8, just before the end of the regular season.
  • Portis can practice with the team and attend games but must leave two hours before tipoff; his ability to travel with the team is still under discussion with the NBA.
  • The suspension adds to a challenging season for Portis, who has dealt with personal losses and off-court issues, but his teammates and coach expressed support for his return before the playoffs.