NBA suspends 76ers’ George Paul 25 games for anti-drug program violation
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In a statement made on Saturday by the league, it was announced that Philadelphia 76ers star Paul George was suspended for 25 games by the NBA for violating the NBA/NBPA Drug Enforcement Program.
The league did not disclose the nature of George’s violation, but the nine-time NBA All-Star told ESPN that George was “using an inappropriate medication.”
“Over the past several years, I have spoken out about the importance of mental health, and recently, while seeking treatment for my own condition, I made the mistake of taking an inappropriate medication. I take full responsibility for my actions and apologize to the Sixers organization, my teammates, and Philly fans for the poor decisions I made along the way,” the statement said.
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“I’m focused on using this time to make sure my mind and body are in the best shape to help the team when I come back.”
Philadelphia 76ers forward Paul George (8) takes a field goal 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, under an agreement between the NBA and the National Basketball Players Association, marks the first violation by George.
The suspension will cost George, a nine-time All-Star, roughly $11.7 million of his $51.7 million salary, or about $469,691.72 for each of the 25 missed games.
George is expected to be eligible to return on March 25 when Philadelphia hosts Chicago. At this point, the 76ers have 10 games remaining in the regular season.
Philadelphia entered Saturday at 26-21, sixth in the Eastern Conference. The 76ers lead 16-11 when George plays and 10-10 when he doesn’t.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
This is breaking news. Check back for updates.
