The basketball star was detained for the possession of marijuana and released shortly after
Los Angeles Lakers Center Deandre Ayton was allegedly arrested at the Lynden Pindling International Airport in the Bahamas on Tuesday for possession of a small amount of Marijuana, according to Reuters. The basketball star was reportedly detained for a short time before being released by authorities.
Ayton, a native of the Bahamas, was flying out of the country at the time of his arrest. Although the country is currently making moves to legalize marijuana for medical purposes, the drug currently remains illegal.
“Our goal is to protect the health of the public while providing access to cannabis for those who truly need it,” a government website for the initiative states.
Ayton moved from the Bahamas to San Diego to play high school basketball. He was considered one of the top prospects for recruitment in 2017, with ESPN ranking the center No. 3. Ayton went on to play for the University of Arizona, where he remained until being drafted by the Phoenix Suns in 2018.
On July 6, 2025, Ayton signed a two-year, $16.6 million deal with the Los Angeles Lakers, after a buyout negotiation with the Portland Trail Blazers.
In December of last year, the Ayton was announced to be the NBA Cares Bob Lanier Community Assist Award winner for November. He was recognized for his efforts in aiding Jamaica during Hurricane Melissa through his work with the Ayton Family Foundation.
Ayton missed his second consecutive game with the Lakers on Thursday due to knee soreness, according to ESPN.
Scroll to continue reading
The Lakers star’s current whereabouts are unknown.