NBA investigating alleged Joel Embiid incident with reporter in 76ers locker room | News, scores, highlights, stats and rumors

INDIANAPOLIS, INDIANA - OCTOBER 27: Joel Embiid #21 of the Philadelphia 76ers looks on in the game against the Indiana Pacers at Gainbridge Fieldhouse on October 27, 2024 in Indianapolis, Indiana. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that by downloading and/or using this photo, user agrees to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Justin Casterline/Getty Images)

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An NBA spokesperson confirmed that the league is investigating a reported confrontation between Philadelphia 76ers star Joel Embiid and a local columnist.

According to one ESPN reportapproached the 2022-2023 MVP the Philadelphia researcher‘ is Marcus Hayes about something he wrote.

The offensive passage from Hayes’ column, which has since been removed from online versions after it was first published on October 23, referred to Embiid’s younger brother and son, per Adam Aaronson from Philly Voice.

“Joel Embiid consistently points to the birth of his son Arthur as the major turning point in his basketball career,” Hayes wrote (via Aaronson). “He often says he wants to be great to leave a legacy for the boy named after his little brother, who was tragically killed in a car accident when Embiid was in his first year as a 76er .Well, to be great at your If you have a job, you have to show up for work first. Embiid is great at the exact opposite.”

According to ESPN, Embiid walked toward Hayes in the locker room after last Saturday’s 124-107 loss to the Memphis Grizzlies. He told the columnist that “you’re going to see what I’m going to do with you” when Hayes referred to his brother or son again.

The argument continued and Embiid reportedly “pushed Hayes on the shoulder while the team’s PR chief got between them.” Aaronson added that “Embiid didn’t land or attempt a punch.”

A day before the incident, the seven-time All-Star expressed frustration with the common narrative that he is choosing not to play rather than deal with an ongoing knee problem. He specifically called out Hayes, even though the columnist was not present.

Kyle Neubeck @Kyle Neubeck

“When I see people saying he doesn’t want to play, I’ve done way too much for this city and I run the risk of people saying that. I think it’s nonsense. Just like that guy, he’s not here.” Marcus, I’ve done way too much to let this damn city be treated like this.” pic.twitter.com/n1Z9of1F6v

The situation dates back to the surgery Embiid underwent last February to repair a meniscus injury. Although he returned to the field towards the end of the 2023-2024 season and represented the United States in the 2024 Summer Olympics, he has yet to make his debut this year.

The NBA investigated the matter and ultimately a fine the Sixers $100,000 for public comments from head coach Nick Nurse and president of basketball operations Daryl Morey about Embiid’s health. However, the league discovered that the center is suffering from a legitimate “left knee condition” that prevents him from playing.

The Sixers have started 1-4, with both Embiid and Paul George unavailable. George does expected to make his first appearance Monday night against the Phoenix Suns.