Lakers' Deandre Ayton Briefly Detained at Bahamas Airport

Ayton released after investigation into small amount of marijuana not found in his possession

Feb. 20, 2026 at 7:55am

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Los Angeles Lakers center Deandre Ayton was briefly detained at Lynden Pindling International Airport in the Bahamas on suspicion of being in possession of a small amount of marijuana. However, Ayton's lawyer stated that the marijuana was not found in Ayton's bag, and he was released expeditiously after the investigation.

Why it matters

The incident highlights the ongoing legal issues surrounding marijuana possession, even in places like the Bahamas where steps have been taken to legalize the drug for certain purposes. As a high-profile NBA player, Ayton's detention could draw attention to these complex legal landscapes.

The details

According to Ayton's lawyer, Devard Francis, the investigators found the small amount of marijuana in someone else's bag, not Ayton's. Francis stated that Ayton was not arrested, but was only briefly detained before being released.

  • Ayton was detained on Tuesday, February 18, 2026 at Lynden Pindling International Airport in the Bahamas.

The players

Deandre Ayton

A center for the Los Angeles Lakers who was briefly detained at a Bahamas airport on suspicion of marijuana possession.

Devard Francis

The lawyer representing Deandre Ayton, who stated that the marijuana was not found in Ayton's bag and that he was released expeditiously after the investigation.

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What they’re saying

“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.”

— Devard Francis, Ayton's lawyer

What’s next

The Lakers and the Royal Bahamas Police Force have not yet commented on the incident, and it is unclear if there will be any further investigation or consequences for Ayton.

The takeaway

This incident highlights the complex legal landscape surrounding marijuana possession, even in places where steps have been taken to legalize the drug. As a high-profile athlete, Ayton's brief detention could draw attention to these issues and the need for clear and consistent policies regarding marijuana use.