Los Angeles Lakers star Deandre Ayton was reportedly detained by authorities at an airport in his native Bahamas, where police searched his luggage for marijuana. According to initial reports from TMZ, Ayton was released after the search failed to uncover any contraband.
Police Claim and Legal Response
The Central Division of the Royal Bahamas Police Force told TMZ that Ayton was observed smoking marijuana on the premises, which prompted the inspection of his belongings. However, Ayton's attorney, Devard Francis, clarified to TMZ that his client was only briefly held by police and no charges were filed. Francis added that Ayton was en route back to Los Angeles to rejoin the Lakers as the team returns from the All-Star break.
Context of Marijuana Laws
While marijuana is legal in California, where the 27-year-old athlete works, the drug remains prohibited in his home country. Recent legislation in the Bahamas has reduced penalties for possession and trafficking; now, less than an ounce can result in just a $250 fine instead of criminal charges. The NBA has also shifted its stance, moving away from punishing players for marijuana use and no longer conducting random tests for it.
Ayton's Career and Recent Performance
Ayton was the first overall pick in the 2018 NBA Draft by the Phoenix Suns, helping them reach the 2021 NBA Finals, where they fell to the Milwaukee Bucks. He made history that year as the first player in the shot-clock era to shoot over 70 percent over a 12-game postseason span. Despite his success in Phoenix, the former University of Arizona star was traded by the Suns in 2023 to the Portland Trail Blazers, who ultimately bought him out in the summer of 2025.
After signing with the Lakers, Ayton has averaged a career-low 13.2 points and 8.5 rebounds per game over his 46 appearances, all starts. The Lakers are currently at 33-21 as they return from the All-Star break, sitting in fifth place in the Western Conference.
Past Incidents and Current Status
This is not Ayton's first brush with controversy; he previously received a 25-game suspension in 2019 after testing positive for a banned diuretic. The recent incident occurred at the Lynden Pindling International Airport in Nassau, Bahamas. The Daily Mail has reached out to Ayton's attorney, local authorities, and the Lakers for further comment, but no additional statements have been released at this time.
