Damian Lillard Upset Over NBA's Postgame Blood Test Following Career-High 71-Point Game

Photo: Instagram/Damian Lillard 

Portland Trail Blazers guard Damian Lillard scored a career-high 71 points in a game against the Houston Rockets on Sunday.

However, after the game, he was subjected to his first postgame blood test of his 11-season career by the NBA, which left him feeling irritated.

Lillard was already tested the day before through a urine sample.

Photo: Instagram/Damian Lillard 

The blood test was conducted as part of the league's drug testing policy, which mandates random testing for performance-enhancing drugs and other banned substances.

Although Lillard understands the importance of these tests, he was still upset, especially since he's afraid of needles.

Lillard stated that he was brought down from his high of the night after the blood draw.

This season, this is not the first time a player has been drug tested after an impressive performance, as Cleveland Cavaliers guard Donovan Mitchell was tested the day after scoring 70 points in January.

However, the timing of the drug test appears suspicious, especially since it occurred after a career-best performance by Lillard.

The NBA and NBPA negotiated the random testing program, and the Collective Bargaining Agreement states that postgame blood tests are part of the process.

Read Next: LeBron James Injury Raises Concerns For Lakers Playoff Hopes

Source: Yahoo Sports 

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