The NBA does not compromise on its rules. Philadelphia 76ers star forward Paul George has been heavily sanctioned by the North American league for violating its anti-doping regulations. The result: a 25-game suspension and a significant financial penalty.

This is a major blow for the Sixers. Averaging 16 points, 5.1 rebounds, and 3.7 assists in 27 games this season, Paul George will miss the next 25 games for the Pennsylvania franchise. The suspension, officially announced Saturday by the NBA, takes effect immediately, starting with the home game against the New Orleans Pelicans.

In its statement, the league specified that the suspension was part of the anti-doping program established jointly with the players' union. While the nature of the substance in question was not revealed, the sanction is severe, both in terms of performance and finances. The 33-year-old player will also have his salary docked, estimated at $11.7 million (approximately €9.9 million).

Paul George will therefore not be able to return to the court until March 25th, when the team hosts the Chicago Bulls. He would then have only about ten regular season games left to try and help his team before the playoffs.

Faced with this situation, the Palmdale, California native quickly addressed the issue. In a statement relayed by ESPN's Shams Charania, the Sixers forward acknowledged his mistake and apologized. "I have often spoken about the importance of mental health. As part of treatment for a personal issue, I took an inappropriate medication," he explained.

Taking full responsibility, Paul George apologized to his club, his teammates, and the Philadelphia fans. "I take full responsibility for my actions and apologize to the Sixers organization, my teammates, and the fans for this poor decision," he said.

The player now intends to use this period of absence to refocus. "I'm going to use this time to make sure my body and mind are in the best possible condition to help the team when I return," he concluded.

For Philadelphia, it will now be necessary to review rotations and short-term ambitions, while awaiting the return of a major player from their roster.