Philadelphia 76ers forward Paul George will be back in uniform Wednesday night against the Chicago Bulls, ending the 25-game suspension he received for violating the NBA’s anti-drug policy.
George, speaking with reporters on Sunday, accepted responsibility for what he called a “poorly timed decision” that triggered the failed test. While he declined to disclose details, he said frustration over his physical condition contributed to the lapse.
“Obviously, being a pro athlete takes a toll on you, and my body wasn’t where I wanted it to be,” George said. “The expectation to perform because of my body not being where it needed to be—that’s what led to the poor decision at the time. I’m no superhero. I’m a human, and I made a mistake in that moment.”
The 11-time All-Star had not played since Jan. 29 but was allowed to practice during the suspension. He acknowledged the absence was difficult, especially after scoring 32 points against Milwaukee in his final game before the ban.
“We’d been playing good basketball, so there was some devastation, just of the momentum that was being built,” he said.
The time away also gave the 33-year-old more opportunity to recover from offseason knee surgery, and he now reports feeling “fully healthy.”
Philadelphia enters the final 10 games of the regular season in the middle of the Eastern Conference playoff pack. George emphasized the need for a strong finish. “We’re in the driver’s seat,” he said. “These are must-wins.”
Source: Hoops Wire
