The incident took place at Lynden Pindling International Airport, with initial reports suggesting Ayton had been arrested. However, his legal representative has since clarified the situation and pushed back on claims that the Lakers star was formally charged. Deandre Ayton’s detention in the Bahamas was short
Questions quickly emerged over why Deandre Ayton was detained in the Bahamas.
Reuters reported that the Los Angeles Lakers’ big man was briefly stopped by authorities at the airport over suspicion of possessing a small amount of marijuana.
“The investigators saw that the actual very small amount of marijuana wasn’t in Deandre’s bag, but they still went through their investigations, and he was released expeditiously,” Ayton’s lawyer said.
According to his lawyer, the substance was not found in Ayton’s luggage. He was detained while officials completed their checks but was released without further issue. The clarification suggests there was no formal arrest despite early confusion surrounding the situation.
Why Deandre Ayton’s detention went viral
Deandre Ayton is a Bahamian national, making the situation particularly high profile locally.
The Lakers center signed a two-year deal with Los Angeles last summer after previous spells with the Phoenix Suns and Portland Trail Blazers. As a former number one overall draft pick, his profile ensures that any legal issue attracts immediate attention. While the episode was brief, it highlights how legal standards differ internationally.
For Ayton, the matter appears resolved, but the attention surrounding it reflects his status as a prominent NBA figure both in the United States and in his home country.
