The NBA announced a harsh sanction for Paul George, who was suspended for 25 games without pay after violating the American league's anti-drug policy. The punishment will keep the forward for the Philadelphia 76ers off the court until March 25, when his team will host the Chicago Bulls.
The measure began to take effect last Saturday, in the game against the New Orleans Pelicans, and will have a significant economic impact. George will stop receiving about 11.7 million dollars, which is equivalent to about 469 thousand dollars per game, on an estimated annual salary of 51.7 million.
The 35-year-old player himself explained the context that led to the positive doping result. In statements to ESPN, he said: ""I have spoken about the importance of mental health and, in seeking treatment for a personal issue, I made the mistake of taking an inappropriate medication"."
""I take full responsibility for my actions and I apologize to the Sixers organization, my teammates, and the Philadelphia fans for my poor decision during this process"", he added.
