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Rasheed Wallace Encourages Zach Randolph Following Arrest

Wallace comes to his former teammate’s defense in a TMZ video.

NBA: Memphis Grizzlies at Detroit Pistons Tim Fuller-USA TODAY Sports

As we reported last week, former Portland Trail Blazers forward Zach Randolph was arrested for possession of marijuana with intent to sell in Los Angeles on August 9th. In a TMZ video posted Wednesday, Rasheed Wallace, a former Portland teammate, came to Randolph’s defense, saying “He ain’t no dope dealer.”

According to California law, having a large quantity of an illegal substance can escalate possession charges to “intent to sell.” At the time of his arrest, Randolph allegedly had two pounds of marijuana in a backpack. In 2010, Randolph was implicated in a drug bust in Indianapolis but was never charged.

When asked if he had a message for Randolph, Wallace said, “Keep your head up, man. Wait for the season to come around; play strong; be up.”

Wallace did acknowledge that if Randolph is found guilty he expects the league to do something. Any suspension would affect the Sacramento Kings, who signed Randolph to a two-year, $24 million contract this summer.

Wallace and Randolph played together in Portland for three seasons, beginning in 2001, Randolph’s rookie year.

Check out the full video here: