76ers forward Paul George has been suspended 25 games for violating the league's anti-drug policy, the NBA announced.

The NBA suspended Philadelphia 76ers forward Paul George 25 games without pay for violating the league's anti-drug program. In a statement to ESPN on Saturday, George admitted to taking "improper medication" 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 said in the statement.

"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."

George added: "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."

George's suspension will begin Saturday night, when the Sixers host the New Orleans Pelicans, the league announced. When he's eligible to return, the Sixers will have a mere 10 games remaining in the regular season, starting with a March 25 home matchup against the Chicago Bulls.