Surprising reveal in the NBA: Tristan Thompson tests positive for performance enhancers and will be suspended 25 games

Cleveland Cavaliers' Tristan Thompson will be facing a 25-game suspension from the NBA due to a violation of its anti-drug program. The league announced that Thompson, tested positive for ibutamoren and a SARM, LGD-4033. The suspension will take effect beginning with Wednesday's game between Cleveland and the Milwaukee Bucks.

Ibutamoren is a growth hormone stimulator, and the SARM LGD-4033, still in early clinical trials, has been shown in preliminary studies to improve lean body mass and muscle strength.

These substances act more selectively than regular anabolic steroids, reducing the secondary effects of the intake.

Thompson is known and loved in Cleveland. Selected fourth overall by the Cavaliers in 2011, he played a key role in the 2016 Cavs championship.

Lately he's been with teams such as the Boston Celtics, Sacramento Kings, Indiana Pacers, Chicago Bulls and Los Angeles Lakers, between 2020 and 2023. This season represented his comeback to the Cavs.

The 32-year-old Thompson is averaging 3.8 points, 3.9 rebounds and 1.1 assists in 12.4 minutes per game this season. His suspension represents a major hit to both him and his team at this stage of the competition.