Paul George takes ‘full responsibility’ after 25-game suspension for anti-drug violation

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Paul George, who already missed the 76ers' first 12 games of the season while recovering from surgery on his left knee, will be sidelined for nearly two months for violating the NBA's anti-drug program

Philadelphia 76ers forward Paul George has been suspended without pay for 25 games by the NBA on Saturday, January 31 (Sunday, February 1, Manila time), for violating the terms of the league’s anti-drug program.

George’s suspension began as 76ers claimed a 124-114 win over the New Orleans Pelicans without him on Saturday. He is eligible to return to action on March 25.

“Over the past few years, I’ve discussed the importance of mental health, and in the course of recently seeking treatment for an issue of my own, I made the mistake of taking an improper medication,” George said in a statement to ESPN.

“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.”

“I am focused on using this time to make sure that my mind and body are in the best condition to help the team when I return.”

George, 35, is averaging 16.0 points, 5.1 rebounds, and 3.7 assists in 27 games (all starts) this season. He missed the first 12 games while recovering from offseason surgery on his left knee.

A nine-time All-Star, George was limited to 41 games in 2024-25 in the first season of his four-year, $212 million contract he signed with the Sixers.

George has career averages of 20.5 points, 6.2 rebounds, and 3.7 assists in 935 games (887 starts) with the Indiana Pacers (2010-17), Oklahoma City Thunder (2017-19), Los Angeles Clippers (2019-24) and Sixers. – Rappler.com