NZ Breakers development player Tukaha Cooper receives anti-doping sanction for cannabis use

Tukaha Cooper was tested before the NBL grand final between the Sharks and Saints. Photo / Photosport

NZ Breakers development player Tukaha Cooper has copped a one-month ban from basketball after testing positive for cannabis.

The Sports Integrity Commission confirmed the test the Southland Sharks guard took after their loss to the Wellington Saints in the National Basketball League grand final on July 20 returned a positive result.

Cooper admitted recreational use of cannabis, and the commission accepted it was out of competition and unrelated to sporting performance.

He was slapped with the ban, which was backdated to October 24, on the condition that he complete a treatment plan for substance abuse. The athlete has completed the treatment programme, meaning he is now eligible to return.

The 23-year-old was not contracted to the Breakers at the time, but his form with the Sharks saw him earn a development deal.

Cooper has yet to play this season for the Breakers, who currently have a 5-10 record halfway through the season.

Commission chief executive Rebecca Rolls said the approach under the Substances of Abuse category reflected a balance between supporting athlete health and maintaining the integrity of competition. She noted that while the pathway was supportive, cannabis was still banned in sport.

“Rules under the Substances of Abuse category are designed to help athletes return to sport after addressing substance use,” Rolls said. “It’s practical and athlete-focused, while reinforcing the importance of integrity and supporting athlete health.

“At the same time, we do want to remind athletes that these rules exist to keep sport clean, safe and fair for everyone. Using any banned substance, including cannabis, can lead to an anti-doping sanction, time away from sport and your sanction being made public.”

Basketball New Zealand chief executive Belinda Edwards emphasised the organisation’s commitment to safe and doping-free sporting environments:

“Basketball New Zealand is committed to supporting our athletes and maintaining the integrity of our sport,” Edwards said.

“While this was an out-of-competition matter, cannabis remains a banned substance under the Sports Anti-Doping Rules.

“We encourage athletes to make informed choices and reach out for help when needed. Our recently appointed High Performance Wellbeing Adviser is here to provide guidance and support, reflecting our focus on athlete welfare. We want basketball to remain a clean, fair, and safe environment for everyone involved.”