Emphatically, no! Admittedly, it depends on the context. In this context, they aren't supplying anybody but their mates, which is pretty much what most young people do.
Put it this way, the price per unit drops for larger quantities. It's basic economics. Plus, nobody likes dealing with dealers. So one deal for a larger quantity at reduced rates to split up amongst mates is NOT systematic nor detrimental to society as a whole. Yes it's illegal, but how many illegal activities do we all commit on a (potentially) daily basis? Torrents, speeding, not indicating, mp3's not paid for, underage drinking (we've all been there)...
Yes it's a crime, yes they were silly (unlucky) to get caught, no they aren't scum because of this (Bird was always scum), no the sky isn't bloody falling. They are just doing what regular young adults are doing and have done consistently for ages, admittedly with a higher pay packet and opportunity for the 'good/hard stuff'.
Much of the public's reaction seems blown out of proportion to me. The titans players aren't any different to any other team's players except maybe for the increased opportunity the GC affords them. Every team has their stories but most just don't get caught.
For me, they were just unfortunate/stupid to be busted. When I think back to my 20's and the shit I was lucky to get away with in comparison to some of my mates, this just seems to be a basic reflection of society as a whole. Consider the mining industry and the implications of their drug testing policies. It simply means that you can't do the lower grade drugs like weed as it hangs around in your system for longer (up to 3 months), therefore, due to the higher pay packet, they are able to afford the class A's that flush from your system in 2-3 days. There is a systemic problem in society that is much greater than the individuals. This needs to be addressed.
