Stephen A. Smith: Marijuana should be banned in NBA

Stephen A. Smith says the NBA should prohibit marijuana use, arguing that it provides players with a competitive advantage by reducing pressure during games.

He believes substances that help athletes stay calm in high-pressure situations should be viewed as performance enhancers rather than harmless recreational drugs.

“If you’re using a drug that allows you to calm your nerves and it elevates your poise, that’s a performance enhancer because you are immune to the pressure.”

Stephen A. Smith believes marijuana should be banned in the NBA.

"If you’re using a drug that allows you to calm your nerves and it elevates your poise, that’s a performance enhancer because you are immune to the pressure."
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— Defiant L’s (@DefiantLs) July 25, 2026