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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.
The suspension will cost George — a nine-time All-Star — about $11.7 million of his $51.7 million salary, or about $469,691.72 for each of the 25 games missed.
George is expected to be eligible to return on March 25 when Philadelphia hosts Chicago. The 76ers will have 10 games left in the regular season at that point.
Philadelphia entered Saturday at 26-21, sixth in the Eastern Conference. The 76ers are 16-11 when George plays, 10-10 when he doesn’t.
This is a breaking news story. Check back for updates.
