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Philadelphia 76ers star Paul George was suspended 25 games by the NBA for violating the NBA/NBPA Anti-Drug Program, the league announced in a statement Saturday.
The league did not disclose the nature of George’s violation, but in a statement to ESPN, the nine-time NBA All-Star said he “took an inappropriate medication.”
“Over the past few years, I have discussed the importance of mental health, and in the course of recently seeking treatment for my own problem, I made the mistake of taking the wrong medication. I take full responsibility for my actions and apologize to the Sixers organization, my teammates and the Philly fans for my poor decision-making during this process,” his statement read.
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“I am focused on using this time to ensure that my mind and body are in the best condition to help the team when I return.”
Philadelphia 76ers forward Paul George (8) shoots the ball against the Milwaukee Bucks in the third quarter at Xfinity Mobile Arena in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania on January 27, 2026. (Bill Streicher/Imagn Images)
The 25-game suspension, per the agreement between the NBA and the National Basketball Players Association, indicates this was a first offense by George.
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George will not be paid during the suspension, costing the 76ers an estimated $11.7 million of his $51.7 million salary.
Paul George of the Philadelphia 76ers dribbles the ball against the Denver Nuggets at Xfinity Mobile Arena on January 5, 2026 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. (Mitchell Leff/Getty Images)
George is expected to be eligible to return on March 25 when Philadelphia hosts the Chicago Bulls. The 76ers will have 10 games left in the regular season at that point.
Paul George (8) of the Philadelphia 76ers dribbles the ball during a game against the Cleveland Cavaliers at Xfinity Mobile Arena on January 16, 2026 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. (Emilee Chinn/Getty Images)
Before the suspension, George appeared in 27 games, with the 76ers going 16-11 when he was on the floor. The 35-year-old averaged 16 points in those contests. In the 20 games without George, Philadelphia went 10-10.
Philadelphia entered Saturday in sixth place in the Eastern Conference standings. The 76ers play the New Orleans Pelicans on Saturday night.
This is a breaking news story. Check back for updates.
