Sixers forward Paul George
Photo by Luke Hales/Getty Images
Sixers forward Paul George
With the Oklahoma City Thunder matchup in the rearview, the Philadelphia 76ers are set to welcome back their star forward, Paul George.
On Wednesday, March 25, George is eligible to return to the court to face the Chicago Bulls. It marks the official ending of his 25-game suspension.
The NBA announced on January 31, 2026, that George was suspended for violating the NBA/NBPA anti-drug program. Shortly after it was revealed, it was clear that George would not be appealing the decision. He sent a statement to ESPN after the league announced its decision:
“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. 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.”
Paul George Breaks Silence Before Facing The Bulls
Paul George
GettyPHILADELPHIA, PENNSYLVANIA – NOVEMBER 30: Paul George #8 of the Philadelphia 76ers celebrates a basket during the first half against the Atlanta Hawks at Xfinity Mobile Arena on November 30, 2025 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Emilee Chinn/Getty Images)
On Tuesday, March 24, George held a press conference at the Sixers’ practice facility in Camden, New Jersey. The veteran forward fielded questions from reporters, addressing the situation and making it clear that he’s ready to return for the final stretch of the 2025-2026 NBA season.
Ky Carlin
Paul George begins his presser today with a heartfelt apology to the #Sixers and the city of Philadelphia for the suspension
via Adam Aaronson, PhillyVoice: Paul George apologized to Philadelphia, his family, his teammates and the organization. Said he has to own up to his mistake after being brought here to be a leader. “To let people down hurt more than anything.” George shouted out teammates for having his back.
When George was asked about the substance taken that caused the suspension, he declined to reveal “specifics” on that front.
As far as returning goes, George plans to get back on the court fully healthy and doesn’t intend to have limitations.
via Kyle Neubeck, PHLY: Paul George implied that his body (knee) was not right midseason and that there was a hidden blessing from missing this time due to suspension
“This 25 games is just what I needed, I think, for my body to kind of heal and be in a better place”
via Derek Bodner, PHLY: Paul George: “The knee is good. It’s in a better place. I feel confident in it. I’m ready to go.”
“I feel like I’m back on that level of being able to perform, and be the focal guy, and be a scorer. That’s my mindset for tomorrow.”
Paul George Is Ready To Bounce Back
Paul George injury update, Paul George season debut, Philadelphia 76ers, Sixers
GettyPaul George #8 of the Philadelphia 76ers poses for a portrait during media day at 76ers Training Complex on September 26, 2025 in Camden, New Jersey.
Since signing with the Sixers during the 2024 NBA offseason, George has struggled to live up to the expectations his max contract has brought.
In his first season, George played just 41 games for the Sixers. He missed time on several occasions due to multiple setbacks. Eventually, the Sixers shut him down for the year.
He finished the 2024-2025 season by posting averages of 16.2 points, 5.3 rebounds, and 4.3 assists. The veteran shot 35.8% from three.
George started the 2025-2026 season late for the Sixers as well. He missed the first 12 games, debuting on November 17.
In the 27 games he played, George shot 38.2% from three. He produced 16.0 points per game, along with 5.1 rebounds and 3.7 assists.
George and the Sixers will be on the court on Wednesday for a 7 PM ET tip against the Bulls.