When you mention the name Joakim Noah, a couple of things probably pop into your head. Passion. Grind. Intensity. A man who left everything on the floor. Nicknamed J Noah, he was dubbed a defender and emotional leader. But in 2017, it was about his blocks and boards not being what they were touted to be. It was about LGD 4033. Learn more about LGD-4033 by visiting our blog section to have a clear picture of its benefits, side effects, and more.
Otherwise known as Ligandrol, LGD 4033 is a substance that has gone haywire in the fitness and bodybuilding world. It’s famous for its muscle-building properties, but also for controversy. That’s because it’s banned from use in most professional leagues, including the NBA.
So, how did Joakim Noah LGD 4033 get so much attention? Let’s find out.
What is LGD 4033?
LGD 4033, or Ligandrol, is a selective androgen receptor modulator (SARM). Its code name is VK5211. It was originally developed to treat muscle-wasting illness and osteoporosis. But why is it so special? It binds selectively to some tissues, such as muscle and bone. It spares organs such as the prostate, which are usually harmed by anabolic steroids.
Here’s why athletes and bodybuilders prefer it:
- Increases lean body muscle
- Strength gain
- Aids in quicker recovery
- Least water retention
Unlike steroids, LGD 4033 doesn’t just get metabolized into estrogen or DHT. That makes it sound safer on paper. But don’t be deceived, SARMs like LGD are prohibited by peak sporting organizations like the WADA and NBA.
Who is Joakim Noah?
Joakim Noah grew up among sports royalty. His dad, Yannick Noah, was a tennis legend. His mom had been Miss Sweden. There was competitive blood in his veins. Joakim went to college playing ball for the University of Florida and coach Billy Donovan. He suited up on back-to-back NCAA championship teams in 2006 and 2007. His passion and fire established themselves in every game.
He was drafted by the Chicago Bulls in 2007. He collected two NBA All-Star awards and Defensive Player of the Year in 2014 in his playing days. He was the pillar of those Bulls teams. He was traded to the New York Knicks in 2016 with high hopes. But that did not work out as expected either. Injuries piled up. Minutes were reduced. Then there was the suspension and the LGD 4033 scandal.
Joakim Noah LGD 4033 Suspension: What Occurred?
In March 2017, J Noah was hit with a 20-game suspension by the NBA. The reason? A banned substance showed up in his drug test, LGD 4033. He claimed it came from a supplement he used while recovering from injury. There was no evidence of him trying to cheat or gain an unfair advantage. But under the NBA’s drug policy, intent doesn’t matter.
If it’s in your body, you’re held responsible. This placed Joakim Noah LGD 4033 on the front pages. He was among the most recognized athletes associated with SARMs.
Timeline of Events
February 2017 – Knee Surgery:
Noah underwent arthroscopic knee surgery on Feb 27, 2017 (removal of loose fragments of cartilage). He was already absent by this time since he was injured.
March 25, 2017 – Suspension Announced:
The NBA suspended Noah for 20 games for testing positive for a drug policy violation. He had a positive sample for LGD-4033, a selective androgen receptor modulator (SARM). (He was 32 and in the first year of a 4-year deal.)
March 2017 – Apology and Union:
The NBA Players’ Association released a statement calling the episode an “isolated occurrence,” and reaffirming that Noah and the union would not appeal. Noah apologized to the team and fans in public, accepting responsibility for the mistake. He said the supplement had been from a place he had selected when rehabbing his knee.
Late March 2017 – Suspension Commences:
Medical clearance to resume basketball activities was given to Noah by doctors a few days later. Noah served his 20-game suspension immediately with clearance – sitting out the last games of the 2016–17 season. Essentially, he served 8 of said suspension in late March/April 2017 and the remaining 12 games in early 2017–18.
April 2017 – Rotator Cuff Surgery:
When fulfilling the suspension, Noah suffered a torn left rotator cuff and had surgery to mend it on April 12. That was going to keep him out for most of the following season to recover.
November 2017 – Short Stint:
On November 27, 2017, the Knicks brought Noah off injured reserve. He played for a few minutes in a single game, grabbing a rebound in a three-minute appearance, before being reassigned to the G-League for a short stint. He ended up playing only 7 games (about 5–6 minutes per game) in 2017–18.
January 2018 – Coach Altercation:
Near the end of January 2018, Noah had a loud shouting match with coach Jeff Hornacek on practice day. He was subsequently suspended by the team from practicing onwards, in effect ending his time with the Knicks. He did not get any more minutes for the rest of the season.
October 13, 2018 – Knicks Waive Noah:
The Knicks waived Noah during the 2018 preseason using the stretch provision, freeing up a roster spot and continuing to pay out the rest of his contract over time. This essentially sealed Noah’s fate in New York.
December 2018 – Signs with Memphis:
Noah signed with the Memphis Grizzlies for the 2018–19 season. He was a reserve player (playing in 42 games with fewer minutes) and averaged modest numbers.
December 2019 – Joins Clippers:
Noah signed with the Los Angeles Clippers late in 2019. He played just 5 games during the 2019–20 season. The Clippers waived him in February 2020.
March 2021 – Retirement:
It had been several years since Noah had played in the game, and the news was that he was retiring from basketball. He was reported to have wanted to retire with the Chicago Bulls (his team of yesteryears), but actually retired playing in 2021.
Throughout this timeline, the most important date is always March 25, 2017: the day the league publicly announced Noah’s LGD-4033 positive test and imposed the suspension. All that followed (the injuries, roster moves, etc.) can be traced back to it as the turning point.
What Is LGD 4033 Used For?
Let’s get down to a popular question: What is LGD 4033 used for?
In science, it’s being investigated for:
- Treatment of sarcopenia (muscle wasting during aging)
- Treatment of osteoporosis
- Healing from hip fractures
- In the fitness and performance community, it’s employed for:
- Lean muscle gain
- Strength gains
- Improved workout performance
- Recovery acceleration
Most simply call it one of the Best SARMs for bulking. For more information, look at our Blog Section, or buy compound alternatives in our SARMs Shop and Research Compounds Hub.
Does LGD 4033 Boost Testosterone?
And another common question: Does LGD 4033 boost testosterone?
Short answer? No.
Actually, LGD 4033 can suppress testosterone production naturally, particularly if you’re taking it at higher doses or for extended durations of time. That is why post-cycle therapy (PCT) follow-up is required. The optimal PCT for SARMs is usually Enclomiphene, Arimistane, and natural testosterone enhancers. Having trouble? See our reliable suggestions at PCT Shop for recovery suggestions and supplements.
LGD 4033 Dosage: What’s Normal?
Let’s get numerical. The typical LGD dosage varies based on experience and goal.
For men:
- 5 to 10 mg daily
- For women (taken much less often):
- 3 to 5 mg daily
Most individuals take it for 6 to 8 weeks. Some individuals stack LGD with other SARMs for increased effects.
For instance:
- YK11 SARM for strength
- S4 SARM for cutting
- Ostarine for joint support
But there are higher risks of suppression with stacking. That makes PCT even more crucial. Always seek advice from professionals, and refer to our dosage guides on our Blog Section or Research Compounds Hub.
What Are the Effects of LGD 4033 and MK-677?
One of the favorite stacks available is LGD 4033 and MK-677. MK-677 is a growth hormone secretagogue. It increases the body’s natural GH and IGF-1 levels. Combined with LGD 4033, it provides:
- Greater muscle growth
- More rapid fat loss
- Improved sleep
- Improved recovery
- Increased hunger
Users claim to gain 5–10 pounds of lean muscle per cycle on average. However, water retention and hormone suppression are unavoidable.
Want the best results? Use this stack with a wise dose, decent PCT, and the professionals’ advice. We frequently discuss this combination in our Blog Section and offer trustworthy stacks on our Shop Page.
Where Can You Buy LGD 4033?
Looking to buy LGD? It’s legal for research purposes, but banned in pro sports. That means sourcing it responsibly is essential.
- You’ll want a supplier that offers:
- Third-party testing
- Clear purity reports
- Transparent practices
Avoid shady websites or underdosed products. Always check user reviews. If you want to buy LGD-4033, you can visit our SARMs Shop and buy this amazing SARM at a 10% to 20% discount from our most trusted vendors. Depending on your goals, you can also find products like Tianeptine Sodium, Amino Tadalafil, and Adipotide Nasal Spray.
The NBA’s View on SARMs
The NBA takes a zero-tolerance stance on SARMs. All SARMs, including LGD 4033, are banned, even if used for recovery. This is where Joakim Noah’s case becomes so important. It showed that even supplements taken with good intentions can cost you your career. His case served as a warning. If you’re an athlete, everything you take matters.
Public Reaction to J Noah’s Suspension
The public was split on J Noah’s suspension. Some fans understood his desire to recover and return to form. Others felt he should’ve been more cautious. To his credit, Joakim Noah took full responsibility. He never blamed others. He owned up, served his suspension, and moved forward. His NBA career wound down quietly. But his case lives on in every discussion about SARMs, supplements, and athlete safety.
One Last Word
Whether you’re an athlete, a lifter, or just curious, the story of J Noah offers a valuable lesson. Even the strongest can make mistakes. But with the right knowledge, tools, and mindset, you can avoid them. So learn from Joakim Noah. Respect your body. Do your research. And never settle for less than quality. Explore our Shop Page for verified compounds. Or visit the Blog Section for the latest insights.
Conclusion
The story of Joakim Noah LGD 4033 is about more than just a suspension. It’s about recovery, responsibility, and risk. LGD 4033 is powerful. It’s one of the Best SARMs for building muscle and improving recovery. But it’s also banned for a reason. If you’re going to use it, use it smartly. Stick to the proper LGD dosage. Use a solid PCT after your cycle. Source only from trusted places like the Research Compounds Hub for quality and lab-tested products. Read up on our Blog Section before starting any stack. And if you’re serious about recovery, don’t forget to check out our Nootropic Shop for Adipotide Nasal Spray and Tianeptine Sodium.
FAQs
1. Why was Joakim Noah suspended from the NBA?
Joakim Noah got a 20-game suspension in 2017. Why? He tested positive for LGD 4033, a banned performance enhancer. He said it came from a supplement used during rehab. But in the NBA, banned is banned. No excuses.
2. What is LGD 4033 used for?
LGD 4033 (also called Ligandrol) helps build lean muscle and boost strength. It was made for medical use, but now bodybuilders and athletes love it for fast gains and recovery. Think of it as a muscle upgrade, but with rules.
3. Does LGD 4033 raise testosterone levels?
Not at all. In fact, LGD 4033 can lower your natural testosterone. That’s why smart users follow up with PCT (Post Cycle Therapy). It helps your hormones bounce back. Need help? Check out our PCT Shop.
4. Is it safe and legal to buy LGD 4033?
Yes, but only for research use. It’s banned in pro sports, so athletes should be careful. If you plan to buy LGD, make sure it’s from a trusted place with lab results. You’ll find safe, tested options in our SARMs Shop and Research Compounds Hub.