Paul George handed 25-game suspension for NBA anti-drug policy breach

Philadelphia 76ers forward Paul George has been suspended for 25 games after breaching the NBA’s anti-drug programme, the league confirmed on Monday, Sport360NG reports.

The nine-time All-Star, who is in his 16th NBA season, said the violation stemmed from taking an unauthorised medication while seeking treatment for a personal mental health issue. George has averaged 20.5 points per game across his career.

In a statement issued to ESPN, the 35-year-old accepted responsibility for the error and apologised to the Philadelphia 76ers, his teammates and supporters.

“I take full responsibility for my actions and apologise to the organisation, my teammates and the Philly fans for my poor decision-making,” George said. “I’m focused on using this time to ensure my mind and body are in the best condition to help the team when I return.”

The NBA said the suspension will be served without pay. George will not be eligible to resume playing until Philadelphia face the Chicago Bulls on March 25, a point at which only 10 regular-season games will remain.

The absence represents a significant blow to the Sixers as they navigate the closing stretch of the campaign without one of their most experienced players.