7 Famous Basketball Players Who Smoke Weed

• NBA policy has dramatically shifted – The NBA paused random marijuana testing starting in 2020-21 and, under the 2023 CBA, removed marijuana from its drug testing program. Players can still face discipline for being impaired during team activities or breaking applicable laws.
• Pain management drives athlete usage – Players consistently report using cannabis as a safer alternative to prescription painkillers for chronic injuries, inflammation, and sleep improvement.
• Retired players lead cannabis entrepreneurship – Former NBA stars have launched multiple cannabis brands, becoming “cannapreneurs” who advocate for normalization in sports culture.e
• Consumption methods are evolving – Some athletes report preferring edibles, oils, and vapes to avoid combustion; however, preferences vary, a nd evidence is largely anecdotal.l
• The cultural stigma is fading – What was once a career-ending secret is now openly discussed, with former players like Kenyon Martin estimating that a large share of NBA players use or have used cannabis.s
• Quality matters for wellness goals – Athletes emphasize lab-tested products with clear THC/CBD labeling when seeking therapeutic benefits
• State laws create complexity – As of 2024, 38 states plus several territories have comprehensive medical cannabis programs, creating a patchwork of regulations that often conflict with league policies.

The league’s policy change during the 2020-2021 season marked a pivotal moment in professional sports, acknowledging the disconnect between evolving state laws and outdated drug policies. This shift didn’t legalize cannabis use but significantly reduced the fear of random testing that previously kept players silent about their consumption. The policy reflects broader societal changes as As of 2024, 38 states plus several territories have comprehensive medical cannabis programs, creating a complex landscape where athletes operate in legal states while adhering to league restrictions. For consumers exploring cannabis wellness, this policy evolution mirrors the growing acceptance in mainstream culture. Consider browsing dispensaries by state and city to understand local regulations that athletes must navigate.

Multiple former players have discussed long-term personal use during their careers. The willingness to speak publicly reflects both personal conviction and the changing cultural landscape around cannabis in athletics. Former players like Kenyon Martin have estimated that a large share of NBA players use or have used cannabis during their careers, suggesting the public acknowledgments represent just the tip of the iceberg.

The Phoenix Suns star has been vocal about his cannabis advocacy, partnering with cannabis platforms to help destigmatize athlete usage. Durant discussed his marijuana use openly during an interview on David Letterman’s show, highlighting the medicinal perspective that drives many athletes toward cannabis. His public stance represents a new generation of players who view cannabis as part of their wellness toolkit rather than a recreational choice. This perspective aligns with the growing body of research into cannabinoid science for recovery, though individual experiences vary significantly.

The 14-year NBA veteran has been remarkably candid about his cannabis use, famously stating he “smoked before every game” throughout his career. Barnes credits cannabis with helping him perform at his best during games. His post-retirement cannabis brand collaborations leverage his podcast success and authentic voice to connect with consumers seeking wellness products. Barnes represents a new model of athlete advocacy that combines entertainment, authenticity, and business acumen. The success of his brand underscores the market demand for authentic cannabis advocacy from trusted public figures.

The former NBA champion has been vocal about cannabis use throughout his post-playing career as a media personality. Jackson was among the early NBA players to speak openly about his consumption habits, helping pave the way for current players to speak more freely. His willingness to face potential backlash helped create the more accepting environment that exists today. Jackson’s advocacy demonstrates how retired athletes can maintain cultural relevance while promoting cannabis normalization.

The former NBA player’s journey into cannabis entrepreneurship began when he encouraged his grandmother to try cannabis oil for her glaucoma. This personal experience led him to become the CEO and founder of Viola Brands, one of the most prominent athlete-founded cannabis companies. Harrington’s story exemplifies how personal health experiences can drive business innovation in the cannabis space. His advocacy focuses on the medicinal benefits of cannabis, particularly for conditions that affect older populations. This transition from athlete to “cannapreneur” represents a growing trend among retired players who use their platform to promote cannabis normalization.

The Trail Blazers legend was an early cannabis advocate who faced significant career consequences for his openness in earlier eras, highlighting how dramatically the cultural landscape has shifted. Robinson’s willingness to speak publicly about cannabis when it was far less accepted helped pave the way for today’s more open environment. His pioneering advocacy demonstrated courage and conviction that influenced an entire generation of athletes. Robinson’s legacy includes both his on-court achievements and his role in normalizing cannabis discourse in professional sports.

The two-time NBA champion has been open about his cannabis use and has discussed marijuana in multiple interviews throughout his career. Smith represents the generation of players who have been increasingly willing to acknowledge their consumption despite league policies. His candor about cannabis use has contributed to the broader conversation about athlete wellness and alternative pain management. Smith’s openness reflects the cultural shift that has made these discussions more acceptable in professional sports.

The NBA Hall of Famer launched his own cannabis line called “The Truth” after retirement, combining his legendary nickname with his passion for cannabis entrepreneurship. Pierce’s entry into the cannabis industry demonstrates how former athletes are leveraging their personal brands to build businesses in this growing sector. Multiple former NBA players have launched or partnered on cannabis brands, including Al Harrington (Viola) and Paul Pierce. His brand focuses on quality products that reflect his commitment to excellence both on and off the court.

Basketball players use cannabis primarily for pain management and recovery, viewing it as a safer alternative to prescription painkillers that carry addiction risks. The physical demands of professional basketball create chronic pain from injuries, inflammation, and repetitive stress. Cannabis offers a potential solution that addresses multiple recovery needs simultaneously: pain relief, inflammation reduction, and sleep improvement. Players report that cannabis helps them manage the physical toll of their profession without the cognitive impairment or dependency risks associated with opioids. This wellness-focused approach to cannabis consumption reflects the broader trend toward holistic health in professional sports. Athletes considering cannabis for recovery should read Herb’s guides on consumption methods and quality identification.

The relationship between professional athletes and cannabis has shifted dramatically from stigma to increasing acceptance. What was once considered a career-ending revelation is now discussed openly in mainstream sports media. This cultural shift has been driven by multiple factors: changing state laws, growing scientific understanding of cannabis benefits, athlete advocacy, and generational attitudes toward cannabis. The NBA’s policy changes reflect this broader acceptance. Players who once hid their cannabis use now launch businesses, appear in cannabis media, and advocate for policy reform. This normalization process continues to accelerate, with basketball players representing one of the highest-profile professional sports groups discussing cannabis normalization.

Multiple NBA players have publicly acknowledged cannabis use, including Kevin Durant, Matt Barnes, Al Harrington, Cliff Robinson, Stephen Jackson, J.R. Smith, and Paul Pierce. These players have discussed their consumption in interviews, podcasts, and through business ventures, helping to normalize cannabis in professional sports culture.

Long-term cannabis smoking can impact lung health through combustion byproducts and bronchial irritation. However, many athletes now prefer alternative consumption methods like vapes, edibles, and tinctures to minimize pulmonary exposure while still accessing cannabis benefits. Research on long-term effects is ongoing, with individual responses varying significantly.

Athletes increasingly use vaporizers, edibles, oils, and tinctures as alternatives to traditional smoking. These methods reduce lung impact while providing controlled dosing and discretion. Vaping heats cannabis without combustion, while edibles and oils offer longer-lasting effects without pulmonary exposure entirely.

Yes. The NBA paused random marijuana testing in 2020-21, and the 2023 CBA removed marijuana from the drug testing program. Players may still be disciplined for being under the influence during games/practices or for illegal possession under applicable laws.

Yes, several former NBA players have launched cannabis businesses, including Al Harrington (Viola Brands), Paul Pierce (The Truth cannabis line), and Matt Barnes (All The Smoke collaborations). These athlete-founded brands focus on wellness, quality, and education, helping to legitimize cannabis in professional sports culture.

When purchasing cannabis products, look for third-party lab testing, clear THC/CBD content labeling, organic cultivation practices, and state-regulated certifications. Quality products should provide certificates of analysis (COAs) verifying potency and safety. Stay updated on legalization news and consider signing up for Herb’s newsletters for ongoing product insights and community discussions.