Sydney Kings star Xavier Cooks provisionally suspended for failing a drug test

Two days out from a crunch NBL final a former league MVP has been stood down and faces a potential ban for failing a drug test.

Former NBL MVP Xavier Cooks has been provisionally suspended after an alleged anti-doping violation two days out from the Sydney Kings’ sudden-death playoff game against the Adelaide 36ers.

Cooks returned a positive test to a banned substance and has been stood down as part of the process under the Australian National Anti-Doping policy.

The 29-year-old didn’t play for the Kings last Friday, which the club said was down to ‘personal leave’, before the NBL confirmed the provisional suspension.

“A mandatory provisional suspension (effective immediately) has been imposed on Sydney Kings player Xavier Cooks following notification to him by Sport Integrity Australia (SIA) of an Adverse Analytical Finding (AAF) and a potential violation of the Australian National Anti-Doping Policy (ANADP),” an statement from Basketball Australia confirmed.

Cooks has been hit with a provisional suspension. (Photo by Mark Metcalfe/Getty Images)

“The matter is now progressing in accordance with the ANADP. No further comment will be made by the athlete, NBL, Sydney or BA and we request the privacy of all parties involved be respected.”

The Kings confirmed Cooks had been stood down and that “no further comments” would be made.

The 29-year-old was Grand Final MVP in 2022, and NBL MVP in 2023, helping the Kings win the NBL title in both seasons.

He then signed with the NBA’s Washington Wizards making 10 appearances before being waived, spending time in Japan’s B League and then rejoining the Kings for the 2024-25 season.

Cooks is likely to miss Thursday’s game. (Photo by Simon Sturzaker/Getty Images)

Cooks was named in the All-NBL Second Team this week and now appears likely to miss Thursday’s finals play-in game.

“Xavier Cooks has been provisionally suspended due to an Adverse Analytical Finding and a potential violation of the Australian National Anti-Doping Policy,” the Kings said in a statement.

“No further comments will be made at this time, and we request the privacy of all parties involved be respected.”

Cooks’ immediate playing career is now under a cloud.

Originally published as Sydney Kings star Xavier Cooks provisionally suspended for failing a drug test