Orlando Magic forward Hedo Turkoglu has been hit with a 20-game suspension by the NBA after he tested positive for an anabolic steroid .
The NBA announced Wednesday that Turkoglu tested positive for methenolone, an anabolic steroid. Hedo, who is in his 13-year as pro, claims the entire incident stems from a lapse in judgement on his part.
He said:
“I haven’t been using. The last time I used the pills or whatever, it was back in Turkey during the summertime. I was battling my shoulder injury throughout my workouts. I took something that I shouldn’t be taking. I should’ve researched and I shouldn’t be in this situation right now. It’s a good mistake to learn from, for everybody, what I’m facing right now. Like I said, I’m really sorry, putting myself in this position and the organization too.”
Despite the error in judgement on his part, Turkoglu has made it clear that he has no one to blame for his actions but himself.
“I take full responsibility for anything that goes into my body,” the 33-year-old from Turkey said in his statement. “I apologize to the Orlando Magic organization, the league, my teammates, and the Magic fans. I know I have let down a lot of people, and I am truly sorry.”
ESPN notes Turkoglu began serving the suspension Wednesday night in Orlando’s game against Atlanta.
Turkoglu, who is in the third year of his second stint in Orlando, is averaging 2.9 points, 2.1 assists, and 2.4 rebounds.
He has already missed 28 games this year for a fractured left hand during the season-opener.
Hedo Turkoglu speaks about his 20-game suspension for steroid use in the video below:
