TOUCH DOWN: Indiana Hoosiers Star Forward Luke Goode Suspended After Positive Drug Test
BLOOMINGTON, IN – In a shocking turn of events, Indiana Hoosiers star forward Luke Goode has been suspended indefinitely and barred from all basketball-related activities following a positive drug test, NCAA officials confirmed late Saturday evening. The announcement sent shockwaves through the college basketball world, just weeks ahead of the Big Ten Tournament, where the Hoosiers were pegged as strong contenders for a deep postseason run.
According to an official NCAA statement, Goode, a 6’7″ senior forward widely regarded as the emotional backbone of the Hoosiers, tested positive for selective androgen receptor modulators (SARMs) during a routine in-season drug screening. SARMs, often linked to performance enhancement, are classified as banned substances under NCAA bylaws.
“Luke Goode has been suspended pending further investigation,” the NCAA compliance board stated. “We take all violations of the NCAA Drug-Testing Program seriously, and athletes found in violation are subject to penalties including immediate suspension and disqualification from team activities.”
The Indiana University Athletics Department responded swiftly, confirming the NCAA ruling and placing Goode on indefinite leave from the program.
“We are cooperating fully with the NCAA’s investigation,” Indiana Athletic Director Scott Dolson said in a press conference Sunday morning. “While we are disappointed, we remain committed to the integrity of our program and the wellbeing of our student-athletes. Luke is a valued member of our community, and we will ensure he receives support during this time.”
Goode, who transferred from Illinois in 2023, had been enjoying a breakout season, averaging 13.8 points, 6.4 rebounds, and shooting 43% from beyond the arc. His leadership on and off the court helped propel the Hoosiers to a 21-7 record, solidifying their top-four seeding in the conference and a projected at-large bid for the NCAA Tournament.
The announcement sent waves through social media, with fans and analysts expressing both shock and support. Some speculated the use may have been accidental or supplement-related, while others questioned the NCAA’s consistency in enforcing policy.
Sources close to the team report Goode was blindsided by the results. In a brief statement released via his agent, he said, “I have never knowingly taken a banned substance. I am working with my team to understand how this happened and clear my name. I love Indiana, my teammates, and the game, and I would never do anything to jeopardize that.”
Goode’s suspension marks a significant blow to Indiana’s postseason hopes. Head Coach Mike Woodson, clearly emotional during media availability, acknowledged the impact but emphasized unity.
“This is a tough loss,” Woodson admitted. “But we rally. We support Luke, and we stay focused. That’s what Hoosier basketball is about.”
As the investigation unfolds, the NCAA is expected to determine whether Goode will be eligible for reinstatement before the NCAA Tournament. For now, one of college basketball’s rising stars sits sidelined, and Indiana must move forward without one of its most vital pieces.
