McGary wants to turn his life around after drug suspension
Having been suspended yet again for violating the league's substance abuse policy, Oklahoma City Thunder center Mitch McGary finds himself at a crossroads.
If he doesn't capitalize on his opportunity this season, McGary might squander his chance at a fruitful NBA career, and after some offseason introspection, McGary spoke openly about his situation Friday.
"Enough with the shenanigans. I messed up my career in college. Now, I'm messing up my career here," McGary told reporters at Thunder media day.
The NBA suspended McGary for five games in July for a failed drug test. Two months later, McGary was suspended an additional 10 games for non-compliance with the drug policy.
During his time at Michigan, McGary tested positive for marijuana and faced suspension for an entire year. He managed to circumvent the punishment by declaring for the NBA draft before catching on with the Thunder.
McGary drew a comparison Friday to veteran center Chris "Birdman" Andersen, who also overcame substance abuse issues.
"They talk about Chris Andersen, NBA champion," McGary said. "This is what I wanna do. I wanna turn my life around."
The 24-year-old also apologized to fans and the Thunder organization for being "a distraction."
McGary holds averages of 4.4 points and 3.5 rebounds in 52 career appearances in the NBA.