Paul George turned back the clock for a season-high 39 points during the Philadelphia 76ers’ 153-131 road win over the Washington Wizards on Wednesday, stepping up in his co-star Joel Embiid’s absence (illness).
The “vintage” performance left the NBA world awestruck by the veteran star wing as the 76ers continue their push to lock up a top-six seed in the Eastern Conference.
Paul George’s Season-Best 39-Point Outburst Fuels Shorthanded 76ers
Playing in just his fourth game since his return from a 25-game suspension for violating the NBA’s anti-drug rules, George had his way against the floundering league-worst Wizards (17-59). The nine-time All-Star tallied 14 points in the first quarter and 24 points by halftime en route to his best scoring effort of Year 16.
George showcased his full offensive arsenal, catching fire from deep and cooking in the midrange against Washington’s helpless defense. He finished a blistering 15-for-22 overall (68.2%) and 6-for-12 from 3-point range (50%), adding 5 rebounds, 6 assists, and 3 steals with no turnovers.
this is what we like to call a masterclass. 🤌
39 PTS | 6 AST | 6 3PM@PALottery pic.twitter.com/Vdyco2rv6f
— Philadelphia 76ers (@sixers) April 2, 2026
Philadelphia outscored the Wizards 47-32 in the third quarter to pull away for its seventh victory in the last 10 games, with star guard Tyrese Maxey and rookie sensation VJ Edgecombe chipping in a combined 51 points.
George’s offensive dominance garnered him high praise on X, with many hailing him for proving that he still has it at age 35.
“PAUL GEORGE VINTAGE PERFORMANCE 🤯🔥” prominent NBA fan page LakeShowYo gushed.
“APRIL 1ST BUT THIS AIN’T A JOKE. 🔥🔥,” Legion Hoops quipped.
” Paul George vs. Washington:
39 PTS
5 REB
6 AST
3 STL
0 TOV
Oldest player in NBA history with those numbers on 0 TOV in a game,” StatMuse pointed out.
“Paul George against the Wizards tonight,” Underdog captioned a picture of George from his prime with the Indiana Pacers.
“Paul George has been really good for the Sixers,” 76ers reporter Michael K-B applauded.
“This is the Paul George the Sixers signed in July 2024,” Philadelphia content creator @RBPhillyTake asserted.
George has now scored at least 26 points in three of four appearances since his return to the 76ers’ lineup, with the team going 3-1 during that span. Philadelphia (42-34) has also secured a winning season as it moves into sixth in the East with just six outings remaining.
George’s resurgence has fueled hope that the 76ers can serve as dark-horse threats in the East playoffs, with one of the most talented rosters in the conference when healthy. The veteran squad is 19-12 overall when George suits up, entering Friday’s home clash against the Minnesota Timberwolves (46-29).
