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Paul George of the Philadelphia 76ers has been suspended for 25 games for violating the NBA’s anti-drug program, with specifics about the violation not disclosed by the league.

The violation is classified as a first offense under the NBA and National Basketball Players Association agreement, resulting in a significant financial penalty for George, who will forfeit approximately $11.7 million of his $51.7 million salary.

George said in a statement, 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.”

 

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He added, “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.”

The forward is set to return on March 25th against the Chicago Bulls, where the 76ers will have just 10 games left in the regular season.

The team is currently 26-21 and sixth in the Eastern Conference.