Damn. Maybe I had it more relaxing in certain ways than these student-athletes. MM can’t even puff in a city where it’s essentially legalized. It is decriminalized, and you’ll only receive a ticket like a parking fine.

“One night in mid-March, with the NCAA tournament about to begin without him, McGary was hanging out with a group of friends at Michigan. He had a few drinks. Someone offered some marijuana – a common occurrence, he said, on campus (TRUE).

“I always turned it down,” McGary told Yahoo Sports. “But that night I didn’t.”

Less than two weeks later, McGary “dressed” for the Wolverines’ Sweet 16 game against Tennessee. He was never going to play, but coach John Beilein thought the sight of him in maize and blue on the sideline, pumping up his teammates, would add some enthusiasm. Michigan eked out a 73-71 win.

Amid the post-victory celebration, an NCAA representative told McGary that he, of all people, had been selected to undergo a random drug test, even though he hadn’t played in months.

By failing a test administered by the NCAA, rather than his school, McGary was subject to the draconian Bylaw 18.4.1.5.1, which calls for a player to be “in­eligible for a minimum of one calendar year.” A second offense, even for just marijuana, results in permanent banishment.

“If it had been a Michigan test, I would’ve been suspended three games and possibly thought about coming back,” McGary said. “I don’t have the greatest circumstances to leave right now [due to the injury]. I feel I’m ready, but this pushed it overboard.

“I don’t think the penalty fits the crime. I think one year is overdoing it a little bit.”

via Mitch McGary heading to NBA after marijuana test nets him yearlong NCAA ban – Yahoo Sports.

The NCAA gives you the whole year off, whereas Michigan would have just suspended him three games. The poor guy’s hand has been forced. He’s an honest, hard-working, classy kid who will thrive in the NBA. Good luck.