Joakim Noah Busted for Marijuana Possesion: A Case of Bad Judgement

It was late Friday evening when Chicago Bull and former Florida Gator superstar, Joakim Noah was (pa)trolling the streets of Gainesville where he once reigned supreme.  At about 1:50 am, a local police officer spotted Noah (hard to miss a seven-footer with a long, flowing mane) carrying a cup which he suspected contained an alcoholic beverage.  For those of you unfamiliar with Gainesville, Florida, walking around with an open container is at best discouraged and at the very worst illegal.

After being spotted, Noah ditched the cup, but was later questioned by the police.  After finding that the cup did contain alcohol, they took a cooperative Noah to the local annex and found a marijuana cigarette in his possession.

Now, this shouldn’t come as a major surprise to anyone.  In fact, I’m actually surprised Noah was never busted for smoking pot while at Florida.  Either Billy Donovan ruled with an iron fist, or Noah was shrewd enough to never get caught.  Probably somewhere in between. 

Look, I’m not going to come down hard on the guy.  Noah was a cult icon of near Tebow-like status while playing for the Gators.  He, along with his supporting cast, took Florida to the promised land, a feat that will likely never be repeated.

I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again.  I took drugs while at Florida and was never suspended from anything so it would be hypocritical of me to throw stones.  However, walking around downtown Gainesville with an open container and a joint, particularly when you’re a high profile and highly noticeable individual like Noah is just poor judgment.

Fortunately for Noah, he was not arrested and released on his own recognizance after being cooperative.  Stern’s NBA does not test for marijuana and it is unclear whether the Bulls organization will slap Noah on the wrist for his actions.  Heck, they don’t even have a head coach yet.  Considering the amount of NBA players that allegedly smoke weed, it’s unlikely Noah will receive much more than a good ribbing from his teammates.

I suppose it could have been much worse for Noah had the police decided to force the issue.  I don’t see this as a case of a hometown hero receiving beneficial treatment from the law.  Noah will have to return to appear in front of a judge in June.

But come on, Jo Jo.  Young millionaire athletes like Vince Young and Matt Leinhart are currently being blasted for their lack of judgment.  I don’t have a problem with your drinking, smoking or trolling your hometown and using your fame and name to find some action.  Just do so wisely.  Leave the spleef at home and the booze at the bar.  Or better yet, next time, order in.