The NBA has suspended Philadelphia 76ers forward Paul George for 25 games.
George violated the NBA’s anti-drug policy.
In a statement to ESPN‘s Shams Charania, George said, “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. 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.”
The suspension will cost George roughly $11.7 million of his $51.7 million salary. There will be 10 games left in the regular season when George is eligible to play again.
George has played well for the Sixers this season. He’s averaging 16.0 points, 5.1 rebounds and 3.7 assists per game while shooting 42.4% from the field, 38.2% from beyond the arc and 85.5% from the free-throw line.
The Sixers are 26-21. They are in sixth place in the Eastern Conference standings. Philadelphia is looking to make the playoffs this season after missing the postseason last season in George’s first year with the club.
A nine-time All-Star, George left the Los Angeles Clippers for the Sixers in the summer of 2024. He signed a massive four-year, $211 million contract with Philadelphia.
George has played for the Indiana Pacers, Oklahoma City Thunder, Clippers and Sixers. He holds career averages of 20.5 points, 6.2 rebounds and 3.7 assists per game. The swingman was the 10th overall pick in the 2010 NBA Draft.
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