Philadelphia, Jan 31, 2026 — Philadelphia 76ers star forward Paul George has been suspended for 25 games by the NBA after violating the league’s Anti-Drug Program, the NBA announced Saturday. The suspension marks a significant development in the 76ers’ season and removes one of their top scorers from the lineup as they push toward the playoffs. 

According to the NBA’s official announcement, George’s suspension — imposed under the collective bargaining agreement between the NBA and the National Basketball Players Association — stems from a violation of the league’s anti-drug policy. It is believed to be his first such offense, though the league has not publicly disclosed the specific substance involved. 

The suspension will begin with Saturday’s game against the New Orleans Pelicans, and George will be eligible to return on March 25 when the 76ers host the Chicago Bulls, with just 10 regular-season games remaining. 

In a statement shared with ESPN, George acknowledged taking an “improper medication” while seeking treatment for a personal mental health issue and accepted full responsibility for the mistake. “I take full responsibility for my actions and apologize to the Sixers organization, my teammates and the Philly fans,” he said, adding that he plans to use the suspension period to focus on his health and return stronger. 

At 35 years old, George has been a key contributor for the 76ers this season, averaging around 16 points, 5.1 rebounds and 3.7 assists in 27 games. The team, currently sixth in the Eastern Conference with a 26-21 record, has been markedly better with George on the floor, posting a 16-11 record with him versus 10-10 in his absences. 

Losing George for 25 games could significantly impact Philadelphia’s rotation and playoff positioning, forcing greater minutes from role players and altering team strategy during a critical stretch of the season.

Under the terms of his contract, George — in the second year of a four-year, $212 million deal — will forfeit approximately $11.7 million in salary during the suspension period, a substantial financial hit. The 76ers, meanwhile, may benefit from reduced luxury tax obligations because of his absence. 

George, a nine-time NBA All-Star, was acquired by the 76ers to bolster a championship contender alongside Joel Embiid and Tyrese Maxey. His season has already been marked by prior injuries and limited games, including missing time last year due to knee and adductor issues. 

This suspension underscores the NBA’s strict enforcement of its drug policy and its consequences, even for veteran stars, and adds another twist to the 76ers’ 2025-26 campaign as the deadline and playoff race approach.

Sources: Yahoo Sports, CBS Sports, Ny Times