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Deandre Ayton released after being detained at Bahamas airport for weed

WASHINGTON, DC – JANUARY 30: Deandre Ayton #5 of the Los Angeles Lakers celebrates after scoring against the Washington Wizards during the second half at Capital One Arena on January...

It appears Deandre Ayton ran into trouble on his way back to Los Angeles.

According to a report by TMZ, the Lakers big man was temporarily detained at the Lyden Pindling International Airport as authorities searched his bag for marijuana.

Deandre Ayton shoots a free throw during the game against the Oklahoma City Thunder. NBAE via Getty Images

The Central Division of the Royal Bahamas Police Force said Ayton was allegedly spotted smoking weed on the premises, giving authorities the right to search his bag.

In a stunning twist, the search came up empty and Ayton was released.

However, Ayton’s attorney, Devard Francis, has a different account of what went down.

He told TMZ that his client, Ayton, was briefly help by authorities as they searched his bag for weed. When nothing was found, Ayton was released and no chargers were filed.

Ayton is currently on his way back to Los Angeles as the Lakers will begin practicing this week before returning to action Friday night against the Clippers.

Ayton, a native of the Bahamas, suited up for the Bahamian National team during Olympic qualifying in 2024. He averaged a double-double of 19.5 points and 11.8 rebounds, teaming up with current NBA players Buddy Hield, VJ Edgecombe Jr. and former NBA player Eric Gordon.

A former No. 1 pick, Ayton has been up-and-down for the Lakers this season by averaging 13.2 points and 8.5 rebounds in 28.2 minutes per game.

Read full story at Yahoo Sport →