NIU linebacker Jamaal Bass pleaded not guilty in court Thursday in Lucas County, Ohio. to two charges from a November game against Toledo in which he jumped shoulder first into a Rockets’ band member.

Bass was charged with felonious assault and misdemeanor assault from the incident on Nov. 1.

According to the Toledo Blade, the judge requested Bass take a drug test. The judge asked what it might show, and Bass answered he would test positive for marijuana.

“I didn’t know that football players at university could smoke dope,” said judge Ruth Ann Franks.

Later, Bass was booked and released on bond to await his trial. Bass was given a monitored recognizance bond, which includes drug and alcohol testing and regular phone contacts.

Bass is still enrolled at NIU and a member for the football team.

Following the judge’s request of Bass taking a drug test, NIU Athletics issued a statement.

According to the statement, “Northern Illinois Athletics has in place a Drug Testing Policy which applies to all student-athletes. That policy dictates a specific course of action which NIU will now begin with football’s Jamaal Bass based on his statement today in Toledo.

If Bass is convicted, he could face up to nine years in prison.

In total, four Toledo bands members were knocked over after Bass’ leap. The band member whom Bass hit initially had his head snap back. That band member and hit a female, who received facial injuries and a headache. The male sustained a concussion.

Bass’ next court date will be April 25.