New Delhi, Jan. 31 -- The NBA has handed Philadelphia 76ers forward Paul George a 25-game suspension for violating the league's anti-drug program, the organization confirmed on Saturday. This significant penalty removes one of the team's veteran leaders from the lineup during a pivotal part of the season.

The league did not reveal specifics about the violation or any substance involved. As per the NBA's agreement with the National Basketball Players Association, a 25-game ban typically points to a first-time offense. George's suspension begins immediately, ruling him out starting with the team's next game. He will be eligible to return on March 25 when the 76ers host the Chicago Bulls, with only 10 regular-season contests left on Philade...