ESPN JUST IN: Few minutes Ago Oklahoma City Thunder Head Coach Mark Daigneault has been suspended indefinitely from sports as he tested positive of…….. read more

In a shocking and unexpected twist just moments ago, ESPN has confirmed that Oklahoma City Thunder Head Coach Mark Daigneault has been suspended indefinitely from all NBA-related activities after testing positive for a banned substance.

The NBA released a brief but serious statement, confirming the suspension and noting that a formal investigation is currently underway.

“Coach Mark Daigneault has been placed on indefinite suspension, effective immediately, pending the outcome of an internal investigation following a violation of the NBA’s health and safety protocols,” the statement read.

🚨 What We Know So Far

While the league has yet to disclose the exact substance involved, multiple sources close to the situation report that Daigneault tested positive for a stimulant that falls under the league’s prohibited substances list — a list that applies not just to players, but to all league personnel under collective agreements.

This marks an unprecedented situation, as suspensions involving head coaches for drug-related violations are exceedingly rare in modern NBA history.

🗣 Thunder Organization Reacts

The Oklahoma City Thunder front office issued a short statement minutes after the league’s announcement:

“We were surprised and deeply concerned to learn of the situation involving Coach Daigneault. While we gather more information, we will fully support the league’s process and cooperate in every way possible. Our focus remains on the upcoming season and supporting our players during this difficult moment.”

Assistant coach Dave Bliss is expected to take over interim head coaching duties as the team prepares for training camp.

📉 Fallout for the Thunder

Daigneault, who just last season was named NBA Coach of the Year after leading the Thunder to a breakout 53-win season, has been praised widely for his player development acumen and close bond with young superstar Shai Gilgeous-Alexander.

This news comes at a critical time — just weeks ahead of what was expected to be a season of serious contention for the Thunder, who are loaded with talent and poised for a deep playoff run.

Many are now questioning how this sudden absence of leadership will affect the team’s chemistry and early-season performance.

💬 Public Reaction

Social media erupted within minutes of the news, with fans, analysts, and former players expressing disbelief and disappointment.

“This is just wild. Never expected this from a guy like Daigneault,” tweeted one NBA insider.

Others have expressed support, calling for due process and urging fans to wait for full details before rushing to judgment.

🔍 What’s Next?

• An official investigation by the NBA’s disciplinary committee is ongoing.

• Coach Daigneault will have the right to appeal or request a secondary test.

• The Thunder will need to adjust their preseason preparations immediately.

• A full press conference is expected within the next 24 hours.

This is a developing story. Stay with ESPN and your trusted sports sources for up-to-the-minute updates on Mark Daigneault’s suspension, the Thunder’s next moves, and what this means for the NBA as a whole.