Joel Embiid: NBA investigates 76ers star over journalist altercation

Posted : 04 November 2024

The NBA has launched an investigation into Joel Embiid, the center for the Philadelphia 76ers, following an alleged physical confrontation with a local journalist on Saturday. The incident reportedly involved Embiid shouting at Philadelphia Inquirer columnist Marcus Hayes and pushing him after Hayes published a critical piece referencing the player’s late brother and his son. This situation arose after the 76ers' 124-107 loss to the Memphis Grizzlies, in which Embiid did not participate due to ongoing recovery from a knee injury.

Witnesses reported that the confrontation occurred as journalists entered the locker room to interview players post-game. Embiid, who has yet to play this season, reacted strongly to Hayes' article, which questioned his professionalism and mentioned personal aspects of his life. The 30-year-old has been sidelined for five consecutive games while he continues to recover from a left knee injury that required surgery earlier in the year, limiting him to only 39 games last season.

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In a heated exchange, Embiid allegedly warned Hayes, “The next time you bring up my dead brother and my son again, you are going to see what I'm going to do to you and I'm going to have to... live with the consequences.” This statement was accompanied by profanity and a refusal to accept any apologies from Hayes. The confrontation escalated when Embiid reportedly shoved Hayes, prompting the team's public relations officer to intervene and separate them.

The NBA confirmed awareness of the incident and announced that an investigation would take place. In light of the situation, team officials sought to move reporters outside the locker room to continue their interviews, with a security guard requesting that they not document the events as they unfolded. Embiid, however, expressed indifference, saying, “They can do whatever they want. I don’t give a s***.”

Daryl Morey, the president of basketball operations for the 76ers, stated that the organization is taking the matter seriously and is actively investigating the incident. Morey noted that they have already been in communication with the NBA regarding the situation. The team is committed to addressing the matter promptly and thoroughly.

Prior to the altercation, Embiid had aired his frustrations about media coverage surrounding his injury and general attitude toward playing. He expressed his perspective, stating, “Everybody has been on the same page,” while highlighting the importance of listening to his body during recovery. He reflected on his history of injuries and the sacrifices he has made for the team, stating that he has put himself at risk for the sake of the city.

Embiid's comments emphasized his commitment to the team and his disappointment over perceptions of his willingness to play. He pointed out the extent of his injuries and the challenges he has faced in returning to the court. As the investigation unfolds, both Embiid and the 76ers will be under scrutiny, particularly regarding how they manage player relations with the media and the impact of such incidents on the team's reputation.

Joel Embiid: NBA investigates 76ers star over journalist altercation

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