'Birdman' has colorful past, poignant present

Chris Andersen, the first player banned from the NBA for drug abuse in seven years, had a most unusual upbringing and route to pro ball, writes Chris Sheridan.

Updated: January 31, 2006, 12:19 PM ET
By Chris Sheridan | ESPN Insider
By the time Chris Andersen is eligible to return to the NBA, his arms should be as colorful as those alternate road uniforms he used to wear for the Hornets.

There's a fascinating human interest story behind the first player banned from the league for a major drug policy violation since Stanley Roberts in 1999.


To continue reading this article you must be an Insider

SPONSORED HEADLINES

MORE NBA HEADLINES

MOST SENT STORIES ON ESPN.COM

ALSO SEE