Paul George suspended without pay for 25 games after violating the NBA Anti-Drug Program

The NBA has suspended Philadelphia 76ers forward Paul George for 25 games after the league determined he violated its anti-drug policy. That’s a massive blow to a team that’s fighting for seeding in the East and trying to build real momentum down the stretch.

Paul George suspended 25 games for PEDS

The following was released by the NBA: pic.twitter.com/hveY31Fzpg

— NBA Communications (@NBAPR) January 31, 2026

This is a quarter of a season disappearing instantly, and it hits a team that already lives on a nightly tightrope with health and availability.

The league is not publicly disclosing the substance or the exact nature of the violation, which is standard in these situations. The reporting notes that a 25-game ban, by the terms of the NBA and NBPA agreement, generally indicates a first violation under the anti-drug program.

It also (rightfully) costs Paul George real money. One report pegs the lost salary at roughly $11.7 million over the suspension, which tells you how serious this is.

George did release an apology statement, saying he takes responsibility, apologizing to the organization, teammates, and fans, and saying he will use the time to get his mind and body right to help the team when he returns.

“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,” said George in a statement to ESPN.

“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.”

Now the Sixers are stuck with the part nobody wants to talk about.

you knew things were going too well for the sixers… fucking paul george

— Drew Smith (@drewmsmith) January 31, 2026

The Sixers had all the momentum right now. Embiid is back. Tyrese Maxey is an NBA All-Star starter, and VJ Edgecombe has been a rookie spark plug for this team. Now they lose Paul George on a roster that’s already lacking depth.

Just great. This is the kind of gut punch that changes the entire tone of the season overnight.

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