The NBA is probing an incident involving Philadelphia 76ers center Joel Embiid, who allegedly confronted and shoved Philadelphia Inquirer columnist Marcus Hayes following a loss to the Memphis Grizzlies on November 2, 2024. The altercation occurred as reporters entered the team’s locker room, with Embiid visibly upset over comments Hayes made in a recent column criticizing his readiness for the season.
Hayes’s October 23 article called into question Embiid’s professionalism, mentioning the late brother and young son of the star player. Reports indicate that Embiid 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.” Despite Hayes’s attempts to apologize, Embiid refused to engage, leading to an escalation where he pushed Hayes before team officials intervened.
An NBA spokesperson confirmed the investigation, stating, “We are aware of reports of an incident in the Sixers locker room this evening and are commencing an investigation.” Both the Philadelphia 76ers and Embiid’s representatives have been contacted for comments but have yet to respond.
In defense of their columnist, the Inquirer’s senior vice president, Gabriel Escobar, emphasized Hayes’s credibility as a journalist. “Marcus is an experienced and accomplished columnist who offers sharp and illuminating commentary grounded in his observations,” Escobar stated. He added that while disagreement is expected in journalism, “a physical assault is unwarranted and untenable.”
In his original column, Hayes questioned Embiid’s commitment to his role, highlighting his need to improve his physical condition to meet expectations. “Well, to be great at your job, you first have to show up for work. Embiid has been great at just the opposite,” Hayes wrote, suggesting that Embiid’s performance issues have delayed his season debut.
Embiid has faced criticism over his recent absences from games, defending himself on November 1 against insinuations that he does not want to play. “I’ve done way too much for this city… I wish I was as lucky as the other ones, but that does not mean I’m not doing whatever it takes to be out there,” he remarked.
Adding to the 76ers’ challenges, the team was fined $100,000 by the NBA due to inconsistent statements from president Daryl Morey and head coach Nick Nurse regarding Embiid’s health. Following the recent events, the 76ers’ season is off to a rocky start, with a current record of 1-4 and Embiid yet to take the court.
Source: Swifteradio.com
