O.J. Mayo says he’s planning comeback after dismissal and disqualification

The NBA dismissed and disqualified O.J. Mayo for a drug violation.

But the former Milwaukee Buck says he’s not done yet.

TMZ:

TMZ transcribed Mayo’s description of his appeal as “in the works.” Like James Herbert of CBSSports.com, I thought Mayo might have said “didn’t work.”

Either way, don’t expect Mayo back in the NBA within two years. The Collective Bargaining Agreement (emphasis mine):

Section 11. Dismissal and Disqualification. (a) A player who, under the terms of this Agreement, is “dismissed and disqualified from any association with the NBA or any of its Teams in accordance with the provisions of Section 11(a)” shall, without exception, immediately be so dismissed and disqualified for a period of not less than two (2) years, and such player’s Player Contract shall be rendered null and void and of no further force or effect (subject to the provisions of paragraph 8 of the Uniform Player Contract). Such dismissal and disqualification shall be mandatory and may not be rescinded or reduced by the player’s Team or the NBA.

Mayo will be 30 by the time he can return – and there’s no guarantee the NBA allows him back then. Per the CBA, “the reinstatement shall be granted only with the prior approval of both the NBA and the Players Association, which shall not be unreasonably withheld.” Considering Mayo also played terribly last season, he might struggle to draw suitors even if eligible.