SAD REPORT: THE TRAIL BLAZERS HAD INDEFINITELY SUSPENDED…..

Portland’s Shawn Kemp Suspended
The NBA suspended Portland Trail Blazers forward Shawn Kemp indefinitely without pay on Friday after he violated the league’s anti-drug policy.

The NBA stated that the suspension will last until he has returned full compliance with his treatment program. Kemp, who has also struggled with weight, left the Blazers late last season to seek treatment for cocaine consumption.

“Obviously, we’re upset, but we’re very supportive of Shawn’s personal efforts. “We’re rooting for Shawn,” Blazers President and General Manager Bob Whitsitt stated.

Kemp, who signed a seven-year, $98 million contract in 1997 after moving from Seattle to Cleveland, is averaging 5.8 points, 3.2 rebounds, and 13.6 minutes in 52 games this season, his second in Portland. Kemp’s salary of $12.77 million will be reduced by $141,889 for each game missed.

“I talked to Shawn a little while ago,” Blazers coach Maurice Cheeks said. “He’s feeling a little melancholy and disappointed in himself. He swears he’s coming back and will do whatever it takes to get there.”

Kemp took a leave of absence from the squad with eight games remaining last season. Three days later, the Blazers announced that he will begin a substance addiction program.

In 2000-01, he averaged 6.5 points, his lowest production since 1989-90, when he played his first season with Seattle.

Kemp had 10 points and six rebounds in 20 minutes against Seattle on Wednesday night, helping Portland win 90-84. He scored seven points in the Blazers’ 94-79 win over Atlanta on Thursday night.

“Shawn’s been wonderful all season,” Whitsitt added. “He’s been on time, early, and worked extra hours. He’s the best basketball player and teammate I’ve ever seen in my life.”

Kemp, a six-time All-Star, was one of the league’s emerging stars while with Seattle. During the 1999 lockout, his weight increased to more than 300 pounds, and his production decreased.

Kemp entered an Atlanta drug recovery program last year with one objective in mind: “just to be great again.”

Kemp began the season as Cheeks’ first player off the bench, playing power forward and center.
Kemp, 32, was not suspended by the league last year, but his absence served as his first strike against the anti-drug policy. It is up to the medical director of the substance misuse program to decide whether this current incidence counts as strike two.

Players who receive three strikes face a two-year ban from the league.
“My understanding is that as soon as Shawn is in compliance, he will be available to play,” he stated.