Nets guard D’Angelo Russell receives possession citation

Russell was cited for possession of marijuana in LaGuardia Airport on May 1.

Madeline James

D’Angelo Russell, a professional basketball player who plays for the Brooklyn Nets of the NBA, was cited on May 1 for possession of marijuana at LaGuardia airport in New York. Russell was travelling from New York to Louisville, Kentucky, when he was cited, according to a spokesperson for the Port Authority of New York. TSA workers flagged an Arizona iced tea can inside of Russell’s checked baggage, and found a hidden compartment where marijuana was found. The citation is a violation of New York state law, and Russell received a summons in court due to the possession. There has not been a court date set at the time of publishing.

If Russell were to be convicted, he would be required to enter into the NBA’s marijuana program, currently in place with the active collective bargaining agreement. However, he would not face suspension by the league, which occurs after a player’s third violation of the policy.

In a statement released by the Brooklyn Nets, the team said that “they were aware of the situation and gathering more information.”

Russell, 23, is a restricted free agent following this season. He is the former 2015 second overall pick for the Los Angeles Lakers.