Los Angeles Lakers center Deandre Ayton was reportedly detained at Lynden Pindling International Airport in the Bahamas on Tuesday for possessing a small amount of marijuana, before being released shortly thereafter. As a Bahamian native, Ayton was traveling out of the country at the time of his detention. Although there are ongoing efforts in the Bahamas to legalize marijuana for medical use, it remains illegal in the country.
In a statement reflecting their initiative, the Bahamian government emphasizes, “Our goal is to protect the health of the public while providing access to cannabis for those who truly need it.”
Ayton has had a notable basketball career, having moved from the Bahamas to San Diego to pursue high school basketball. He gained recognition as one of the top recruits in 2017, with ESPN ranking him as the No. 3 prospect. Following his time at the University of Arizona, he was selected by the Phoenix Suns in the 2018 NBA Draft.
Recently, on July 6, 2025, Ayton signed a two-year contract worth $16.6 million with the Los Angeles Lakers after negotiating a buyout with the Portland Trail Blazers. His community involvement was highlighted when he received the NBA Cares Bob Lanier Community Assist Award in December for his philanthropic efforts, particularly for aiding Jamaica during Hurricane Melissa through the Ayton Family Foundation.
As of now, Ayton is sidelined for the second consecutive game due to knee soreness, according to ESPN, and his current whereabouts remain undisclosed. Despite these challenges, his commitment to both basketball and community support continues to shine through.