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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 reveal the nature of George’s violation, but in a statement to ESPN, the nine-time NBA All-Star said he was “taking inappropriate medication.”
“Over the past few years, I have spoken about the importance of mental health and recently, while seeking treatment for an issue of mine, I made the mistake of taking inappropriate medication. I take full responsibility for my actions and apologize to the Sixers organization, my teammates and the Philadelphia fans for my poor decision during this process,” his statement read.
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“I’m focused on using this time to make sure 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 during the third quarter at the Xfinity Mobile Arena in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, on January 27, 2026. (Bill Streicher/Image Images)
The 25-game suspension, under the terms of the agreement between the NBA and the National Basketball Players Association, indicates that it was a first violation by George.
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The suspension will cost George, a nine-time All-Star, approximately $11.7 million of his $51.7 million salary, or about $469,691.72 for each of the 25 games missed.
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 Chicago. The 76ers will have 10 games left in the regular season at that point.
Philadelphia entered Saturday with a 26-21 record, sixth in the Eastern Conference. The 76ers are 16-11 when George plays, 10-10 when he doesn’t.
This is breaking news. Please check back for updates.
