The NBA has suspended Philadelphia 76ers forward Paul George for 25 games without pay for violating the league’s anti-drug program, the league announced Saturday.
George’s suspension will start with Saturday night’s home game between the 76ers and the New Orleans Pelicans. The suspension will cost him $11.7 million in salary. George is making $51.6 million this season.
‘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,’ George said in a statement. ‘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.’
George, 35, is averaging 16 points, 5.1 rebounds, and 3.7 assists in 27 games this season for Philadelphia (26-21), who are in sixth place in the Eastern Conference entering tonight’s contest.