“We are shocked”
Doping case in the BBL? Professional tested positive
January 19, 2025 – 11:30 a.mReading time: 1 min.
A possible doping case shocks the Basketball Bundesliga. The professional concerned is not aware of any guilt. His club wants a quick clarification.
The Skyliners Frankfurt have to do without Booker Coplin for the time being. The winger tested positive for testosterone and was suspended by the National Anti-Doping Agency (NADA) with immediate effect. The test took place on November 27th last year. Coplin will therefore not be in the squad for the away game against Telekom Baskets Bonn in the Basketball Bundesliga (BBL) on Sunday.
The 27-year-old American explained in a statement from the club that he has been taking a medically necessary medication since childhood, which he sees as the cause of the positive result. “I have never knowingly doped or gained an unfair advantage,” Coplin said.
So far only the result of the A sample is available. The result of the B sample is still pending. The public prosecutor’s office has also started investigations.
Thomas Sulzer, managing director of Skyliners, expressed concern: “We are shocked. We promise all authorities involved our full support and will actively participate in clarifying the background to this incident as quickly and fully as possible.” The club did not want to comment on further details at the moment.