Philadelphia 76ers star Paul George fired back at criticism blaming his NBA podcast for his performance.

© Harry How/Getty ImagesPaul George #13 of the LA Clippers reacts during a 118-100 loss to the Minnesota Timberwolves at Crypto.com Arena on March 12, 2024 in Los Angeles, California.

Philadelphia 76ers forward Paul George has been a frequent target of criticism in recent seasons, with many attributing his dip in performance to his involvement in his podcast, Podcast P. Detractors have suggested that George is more focused on creating content than on his commitment to the NBA game.

Now, George is speaking out on the matter, addressing the backlash directly on his own platform. The veteran star pushed back on the idea that his podcast distracts him from basketball, insisting that it actually helps him cope with the demands of his athletic career.

“When I started my podcast, I knew there wasgoing to be some backlash,” George said on Podcast P, via NBACentral.

“I knew there were going to be people who had things to say about it: ‘He’s an athlete. He should be in the gym 24 hours a day.’ But to be honest, it’s therapeutic.”

“It’s a chance for me to talk about things that go on in sports that I probably would hold onto otherwise,” he added. George, who signed with the Sixers last offseason, originally launched his podcast in 2023 while still playing for the Los Angeles Clippers.

Paul George of the Philadelphia 76ers during a regular season game against the Los Angeles Clippers

George’s struggles this season

This NBA season, George has been limited to just 41 games due to a lingering groin issue in his first year with Philadelphia. He is averaging 16.2 points, 5.3 rebounds, and 4.3 assists per game—his lowest statistical output since his rookie year.

Focused on health and recovery

George made it clear that his priority now is regaining full health for the upcoming season. Last month, he wrapped up the latest run of his podcast, reinforcing his commitment to his recovery and his role with the 76ers.

“I haven’t been the healthiest, so it’s just been putting a ton of work towards getting my body as healthy as possible,” George said in his final podcast episode.

 “The full focus is on being here, trying to turn things around, and getting this team together.” At 34 years old, George is looking to bounce back and prove that his focus remains on winning—both on and off the court.