NBA Suspends Joel Embiid For Three Games Following Confrontation With Journalist.
Philadelphia 76ers centre and reigning NBA Most Valuable Player, Joel Embiid, has been suspended for three games after an altercation with a Philadelphia Inquirer journalist. The incident occurred following the 76ers’ 124-107 loss to the Memphis Grizzlies on Saturday, during which Embiid allegedly shoved the columnist in response to a critical article.
The columnist’s piece referenced Embiid’s son and late brother, while also questioning his fitness and professionalism—a move that reportedly angered the seven-time All-Star. Embiid, who has not yet played this season due to a knee injury, is set to miss three games as a consequence of the suspension.
The NBA’s executive vice-president and head of basketball operations, Joe Dumars, addressed the incident in a statement, saying, “Mutual respect is paramount to the relationship between players and media in the NBA. While we understand Joel was offended by the personal nature of the original version of the reporter’s column, interactions must remain professional on both sides and can never turn physical.”
Philadelphia have struggled in Embiid’s absence, winning only one of their first six games this season. Embiid’s suspension adds further challenges for the 76ers as they navigate the early stages of their campaign without their star player.
