Professional basketball player Paul George from the Philadelphia 76ers has been handed a 25-game suspension for breaching the NBA’s anti-drug program rules, the league confirmed on Saturday. The specifics of the violation and the substance involved were not disclosed by the NBA. In a statement to ESPN, George admitted to taking something inappropriate while undergoing treatment for a personal issue related to mental health.
Expressing remorse, George took full accountability for his actions and apologized to his team and fans. This suspension, according to the NBA and the National Basketball Players Association agreement, indicates that this is George’s first offense. His suspension will commence immediately, starting with the Philadelphia 76ers’ game against the New Orleans Pelicans on Saturday.
The suspension will result in George forfeiting approximately $11.7 million of his $51.7 million salary, equating to around $469,691.72 for each of the 25 games missed. Part of the money forfeited will offset the team’s luxury tax, putting the 76ers closer to escaping the luxury tax threshold by about $1.3 million due to the amount George will not receive.
George is expected to be eligible to return to play on March 25 against the Chicago Bulls, with 10 regular-season games remaining for the 76ers at that point. The Philadelphia team currently holds a 26-21 record, ranking sixth in the Eastern Conference. Their performance with George on the court stands at 16-11, contrasting with a 10-10 record when he is absent.
Joel Embiid, a two-time NBA scoring champion, emphasized the challenge of replacing George as the Sixers aim to secure a playoff spot without one of their key players. Head coach Nick Nurse refrained from detailing his conversation with George post-suspension announcement but commended George’s positive impact on the team, noting his leadership qualities.
Throughout the current season, George has averaged 16 points per game in 27 appearances for the Sixers, ranking third in scoring behind Tyrese Maxey and Joel Embiid. Despite signing a lucrative contract in 2024, George’s first year in Philadelphia was marred by injuries, resulting in a subpar performance compared to his previous seasons.
Describing his experience in Philadelphia as “rock bottom,” George faced setbacks, including knee surgery and missed games due to injuries. His absence due to the suspension could significantly influence the team’s strategy leading up to the trade deadline and playoff aspirations. The Sixers will navigate the upcoming trade deadline during a challenging five-game road trip, starting against the Los Angeles Clippers.
Nurse emphasized the team’s commitment to supporting George through his difficulties and rallying together to overcome the obstacles they face in his absence.
