Recent NBL MVP and Sydney Kings star Xavier Cooks has been handed a provisional suspension, effective immediately, over a potential anti-doping violation.
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Cooks was named in the All-NBL Second Team this week, but now looks set to miss the Kings’ NBL finals play-in game against Adelaide on Thursday night due to the ruling.
The 29-year-old was Grand Final MVP in 2022, and NBL MVP in 2023, helping the Kings win the NBL title in both seasons.
He then signed with the NBA’s Washington Wizards making 10 appearances before being waived, spending time in Japan’s B League and then rejoining the Kings for the 2024-25 season.
“Xavier Cooks has been provisionally suspended due to an Adverse Analytical Finding and a potential violation of the Australian National Anti-Doping Policy,” the Kings said in a statement.
“No further comments will be made at this time, and we request the privacy of all parties involved be respected.”
Meanwhile Basketball Australia said: “A mandatory provisional suspension (effective immediately) has been imposed on Sydney Kings player Xavier Cooks following notification to him by Sport Integrity Australia (SIA) of an Adverse Analytical Finding (AAF) and a potential violation of the Australian National Anti-Doping Policy (ANADP).
“The matter is now progressing in accordance with the ANADP. No further comment will be made by the athlete, NBL, Sydney or BA and we request the privacy of all parties involved be respected.”
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