**The NBA's Cocaine Years**

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Post on Oct 23, 2024

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The NBA's Cocaine Years: When the Game Was High

The NBA has had its fair share of scandals, but the 1980s was a particularly wild time. It was the era of "The Cocaine Years," a period when drug use, specifically cocaine, was rampant among NBA players. It wasn't just a few guys either, it was a widespread problem that threatened to destroy the league from the inside out.

The era was marked by a reckless, party-hard attitude among players. The NBA was still relatively young, and the money was flowing freely. There were few consequences for off-court behavior, and players felt untouchable. It's a bit crazy to think about now, but back then, cocaine was widely accepted as part of the NBA culture. Players weren't just doing it on the weekends, it was a part of their daily lives.

The Drugs Were Everywhere

Cocaine was easy to find in NBA cities and even inside NBA arenas. It was considered a "status symbol" and a way for players to let loose after games. It wasn't just about the high either, the "energy" it provided was appealing to athletes pushing their bodies to the limit. This was a dark time for the NBA, with players losing their way and even dying from drug overdoses. It was a terrible time for the league, and the players themselves were the ones who suffered the most.

The Turning Point

It wasn't until the late 1980s that the NBA started to crack down on drug use. This was fueled by the death of several players, including Len Bias, a young star who died of a cocaine overdose just days after being drafted by the Boston Celtics. The league realized it needed to take action to save itself, and the "war on drugs" began.

The NBA implemented random drug testing and suspension policies for players who tested positive. It was a controversial move at the time, but it was necessary for the league's survival. This was a huge turning point for the NBA, and it's remarkable how far the league has come since then.

The Shadow of the Past

Today, the NBA is a much different league than it was in the 1980s. Drug use is rare and is strongly discouraged. The league is more professional and focused on its image, but the shadow of the "Cocaine Years" still lingers. It's a reminder of the dangers of drug use and the importance of taking care of yourself both on and off the court. While the NBA has moved on, the stories of those years serve as a stark reminder of the importance of health and wellbeing in the face of temptation and pressure. It's a lesson that players, fans, and everyone in the league should never forget.