01.01.07
In late November, The National Basketball Players’ Association (NBPA) entered into an agreement with Abbott Nutrition’s EAS brand. Illinois-based Abbott Nutrition, which develops EAS sports nutrition products, will supply product to the association for its members, and the organizations will also work together on educational programs. In addition, EAS will have a presence at select NBPA-sanctioned events. “Given the rigorous drug testing procedures and policies that NBA players are subjected to, we are always concerned that players do not inadvertently take products containing banned substances,” said Billy Hunter, executive director, NBPA. “We are providing players with an option designed to help eliminate that possibility, because of the thorough additional testing that is required for all products received by players under this program.” The relationship with the NBPA expands the EAS presence in professional sports. EAS is currently the only sports nutrition brand with products certified by a third-party testing organization as part of the NFL and the NFL Players’ Association Supplement Label Certification Program.