Milwaukee Bucks forward Bobby Portis Jr has been suspended for 25 games without pay after testing positive for Tramadol, a banned substance under the NBA’s anti-drug policy.

The NBA confirmed the 30-year-old’s suspension began when the Bucks hosted the LA Clippers on Thursday, winning the game 116-110.

Portis Jr will be ineligible to play until 8 April, when Milwaukee faces the Minnesota Timberwolves in the 79th game of its regular season.

“I was dealing with an elbow injury and using an NBA-approved medication for pain and inflammation,” Portis Jr said in a statement.

“During that time, I made an honest mistake and took a pain-reducing anti-inflammatory pill that is not approved. I feel horrible and recognise that I’m responsible for what I put in my body.

“From the bottom of my heart, I want to apologise to the Bucks organisation, my teammates, coaches, family, and fans.”

Portis Jr, a key contributor to Milwaukee’s 2021 championship team, has averaged 13.7 points and 8.3 rebounds per game in 46 appearances this season.

“This is a very difficult set of circumstances for Bobby and our team,” Bucks general manager Jon Horst said. “He and the Bucks respect the NBA/NBPA Anti-Drug Program and will accept what’s been handed down. But we 100% support Bobby.”

Tramadol was added to the World Anti-Doping Agency’s list of prohibited substances in 2024 following research indicating its potential to enhance sports performance.

The Bucks currently sit fifth in the Eastern Conference standings.