NBA Rookies Will Get Drug Tests

The National Basketball Assn. Players Assn. and league management have agreed to mandatory drug testing for rookies during training camp, and players who test positive for cocaine or heroin will be suspended for one year, NBA Commissioner David Stern announced Friday.

The new testing program begins when training camps open next month. The league will require a urinalysis once from each rookie, and the penalty will be the same for any rookie refusing to take the test. Management and the players’ union reached an agreement on the plan separate from collective bargaining negotiations.

Stern made his announcement at the league’s annual meeting.