The NBA has initiated an investigation into an incident involving Philadelphia 76ers star Joel Embiid, who allegedly had a physical altercation with a reporter following critical comments about his family and professional conduct. The confrontation occurred in the Philadelphia locker room after a game where the 76ers were defeated 124-107 by the Memphis Grizzlies.
Embiid, a seven-time NBA All-Star and the 2023 Most Valuable Player, reportedly warned the reporter against mentioning his deceased brother and son, threatening consequences if such references were made again. According to witnesses, the situation escalated when Embiid allegedly pushed the reporter on the shoulder, prompting intervention from a Sixers official.
This incident comes at a time when Embiid has not played this season due to a knee injury, adding tension to his reaction to accusations of unprofessionalism and lack of fitness. In a previous news conference, Embiid expressed his frustration over criticisms of his commitment to the team and the city. Both the NBA and the Sixers management, including president of basketball operations Daryl Morey, have expressed taking the matter seriously and are conducting thorough investigations to address the situation appropriately.
