By DANIEL MATTHEWS, US SENIOR SPORTS WRITER
Published: 12:09 EST, 31 January 2026 | Updated: 12:19 EST, 31 January 2026
The NBA has handed Philadelphia 76ers star Paul George a 25-game suspension for violating its anti-drugs policy.
George claims he made a 'mistake' and took 'improper medication' while seeking treatment for a mental health issue.
'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 told 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.'
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