Uncertainty remains over NBL star’s drugs violation
Steve Larkin |
The Adelaide 36ers can’t dwell on the uncertainty around Montrezl Harrell’s drug violation, boom recruit Bryce Cotton says.
Harrell’s NBL future is clouded, with the star American facing a suspension for a drug violation in China.
On June 25, the China Anti-Doping Agency announced the 31-year-old had tested positive for carboxy THC, an active compound in cannabis.
Harrell, who played for Xinjiang Flying Tigers in China, played in Puerto Rico in the off-season.
He was left out of the 36ers’ team that met European giants Panathinaikos last Sunday in Sydney, amid confusion over the failed drug test and any sanction.
Adelaide and Basketball Australia are seeking more information amid fears that a possible ban of three months or longer would rule Harrell out of most of the NBL season.
Cotton, a three-time NBL champion with the Perth Wildcats and five-time NBL MVP who joined the 36ers this season, said there was uncertainty over the entire situation.
“It’s very unfortunate,” Cotton told reporters on Wednesday.
“But you can only control what you can control.
“If it goes that way (a ban), obviously Trez is going to be missed not only by our club but be missed by the league.
“But you have to focus on what’s within your control, unfortunately that’s where it stands.”
The 36ers open their NBL season on Sunday with a home fixture against the Brisbane Bullets.
“As a team we have been handling it pretty well, given the circumstances,” Cotton said.
“There’s a lot of stuff that is out of our control, but with us having the first game coming up this week, those are the things we have to focus on.
“Obviously a player like Trez is going to be a player you miss.
“But as a team, you can’t go into it looking at it like that, you have to have the next-man-up mentality.”
Cotton said he felt for Harrell, after the former NBA player became a massive drawcard last season, his first in the NBL.
“We’re all humans, we all have our emotions and stuff, and I can only imagine the feelings that have gone through his mind and how he’s handling it,” Cotton said.
“I pray for him and I can only hope that he has a good support group around him with his family and friends to give him comfort at a difficult time.”
AAP
