Philadelphia 76ers Center Joel Embiid Suspended Three Games for Altercation with Media Member

NEW YORK –

The NBA announced on Tuesday that Philadelphia 76ers center Joel Embiid has been suspended for three games without pay following an altercation with a member of the media.

Embiid’s suspension will take effect starting from the next NBA regular-season game for which he is eligible to play. He has been sidelined this season due to left knee management, as stated by the 76ers.

The incident occurred when Embiid shouted at and ultimately shoved a Philadelphia newspaper columnist in a locker room confrontation on Saturday night.

NBA executive Joe Dumars emphasized the importance of mutual respect between players and media in the league. He stated, “While we acknowledge that Joel was offended by the personal nature of the reporter’s column, interactions must always remain professional and should never escalate to physical altercations.”

Embiid’s frustration stemmed from remarks made by Philadelphia Inquirer columnist Marcus Hayes, who referenced Embiid’s late brother and son, both named Arthur, in columns criticizing his professionalism and physical condition after competing in the Paris Olympics.

As reporters entered the locker room for interviews, Embiid stood up and directly confronted Hayes.

“If you ever mention my deceased brother and my son again, you will witness the consequences of your actions,” Embiid warned Hayes, using explicit language during the heated exchange.

Despite Hayes offering an apology, Embiid expressed his displeasure, stating, “This is not the first time this has happened.”