The NBA has handed Philadelphia 76ers forward Paul George a 25-game suspension without pay after determining he violated the league’s Anti-Drug Program, the league announced Saturday. 

The ban, one of the more significant disciplinary actions this season, will sideline the nine-time All-Star for roughly two-thirds of the regular season before he’s eligible to return on March 25 against the Chicago Bulls. 

According to official league releases, the suspension stems from a violation of the terms of the NBA/NBPA anti-drug policy. The NBA did not disclose the specific substance involved, which is standard in such cases under policy guidelines. By collective bargaining agreement rules, a 25-game ban indicates a first violation of the anti-drug program. 

In a statement to ESPN’s Shams Charania, George took ownership of the situation, explaining that he “made the mistake of taking an improper medication” while seeking treatment for a personal mental health issue and apologized to the team, organization and fans for his error. He said he plans to use the time away “to make sure that my mind and body are in the best condition to help the team when I return.”

George’s absence will have a noticeable impact on the 76ers’ rotation. The 35-year-old has been averaging approximately 16.0 points, 5.1 rebounds and 3.7 assists per game this season while serving as a key piece alongside Joel Embiid and Tyrese Maxey. Philadelphia – currently sitting in a playoff position in the Eastern Conference – now faces the challenge of maintaining momentum without one of its veteran contributors. 

The suspension will also cost George around $11.7 million in lost salary, as he will not be paid for the games he misses under the league’s disciplinary rules. 

This development will sideline George, a cornerstone of the Sixers’ roster during a critical stretch of the season. While he’s expected to come back for the final 10 games of the regular season, Philadelphia will need to adapt without his scoring and experience as it pushes toward the postseason.