CHESHIRE Jets’ talismanic captain James Hamilton has called time on his illustrious basketball career after receiving a four-month ban for failing a drugs test.
Fans’ favourite Hamilton was selected for a test on December 12 last year after the Jets’ game at Essex Pirates and admitted at the time he had taken cannabis.
At an end-of-season UK Anti-Doping Agency tribunal held before Patrick Harrington QC, the 6ft 7in American player revealed he took the drug at the funeral of a friend’s father, when an acquaintance offered it to him to help relieve pain caused by a broken tooth.
He admitted his guilt and was banned for four months, rather than the standard two years, for his cooperation and previous good character.
Hamilton, 38, has decided to end his long Jets career, but insisted: “I want to make it clear my decision was not related to this judgement.
“My body is slowing down and I think that has made up my mind.
“I want to thank the Jets fans for supporting me over the years.
“ I have been here for more than 10 years and the fans have always been great.
“I don’t think what has happened here will tarnish all the good memories of my time at the club for me or them.
“I will be pursuing other avenues now. I may help out with some coaching or go in a completely different direction.
“If the Jets ever want me to help out I will consider it.”
Jets director Pete Hawkins said the club was “disappointed” to learn of the outcome of the hearing.
He added: “It brings to an end an illustrious career both on and off the court for James with the Jets and is a really sad situation for all concerned.
“As a club we continue to strive to set the highest standards.”
The veteran player, who is from Michigan, led the Jets to the finals of the BBL Cup and Trophy last season as well as the play-offs.
He joined the Jets in 1998 after seasons at Worthing Thunder and London Towers.
He became a legend after captaining the team in the 2001-02 season when they won the BBL Cup, BBL Trophy, Championship and play-offs.
In recent years, he has played a key role in the club’s community work, visiting schools to teach healthy living tips and earning the nickname ‘The Ambassador’.
