Why it matters:
The National Basketball Association (NBA) has removed cannabis from its list of banned substances and ended marijuana screenings for players as part of its new collective bargaining agreement (CBA). Players will now have the opportunity to smoke weed and invest in cannabis companies without fear of reprisal. This move reflects the changing societal views around marijuana and aligns the NBA with other professional sports leagues that have relaxed their cannabis policies.
What they are saying:
Under the new contract, players will no longer be tested for cannabis and will be allowed to use marijuana and other cannabis products. However, they will still face discipline if they are found to be high during games, practices, or team functions. Players will also be allowed to invest in CBD companies and hold a passive interest in marijuana product manufacturers. Some experts believe that NBA athletes could become the face of the CBD movement and launch their own CBD brands.
The big picture:
The NBA’s decision to remove cannabis from its banned substances list follows similar actions by other professional sports leagues. Major League Baseball (MLB) removed marijuana from its banned substances list and allowed sponsorship deals with cannabis companies. The National Hockey League (NHL) no longer bans cannabis and provides voluntary treatment for players with high THC levels. The National Football League (NFL) relaxed its cannabis policy for the off-season and reduced sanctions for positive drug tests.
What to watch:
It will be interesting to see how NBA players take advantage of the new rules regarding cannabis. Will they leverage this opportunity to launch their own CBD brands and become advocates for the health and wellness benefits of CBD? Additionally, the impact of this decision on the overall perception of cannabis in professional sports and society as a whole is worth monitoring.
My take:
The NBA’s decision to remove cannabis from its banned substances list is a step in the right direction. It reflects the changing attitudes towards marijuana and acknowledges the potential health benefits of CBD. By allowing players to invest in the cannabis industry, the NBA is also opening up new business opportunities. This move could lead to NBA players becoming influential figures in the CBD movement. Overall, it’s an important development that aligns the NBA with other sports leagues and reflects the evolving views on cannabis.
