NEW YORK — On Tuesday, the NBA announced a three-game suspension without pay for Philadelphia 76ers center Joel Embiid following an incident in which he shoved a media member.

This suspension will take effect during the next regular-season game for which Embiid is eligible to participate. So far this season, he has not played due to management of a left knee issue that the 76ers have been monitoring closely.

The altercation occurred in a locker room on Saturday when Embiid confronted Philadelphia Inquirer columnist Marcus Hayes after feeling disrespected by comments made in Hayes’ recent article.

NBA executive Joe Dumars addressed the incident, stating, “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.”

The tension stemmed from Hayes drawing attention to Embiid’s late brother and son, both named Arthur, while questioning Embiid’s commitment and fitness following his participation in the Paris Olympics.

When reporters came into the locker room, Embiid confronted Hayes directly. He expressed his anger, saying, “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.”

Embiid’s frustration escalated, resulting in the use of explicit language, as he made clear that he did not accept Hayes’ apology. “That’s not the f——— first time,” Embiid remarked, indicating that he felt disrespected by Hayes’ previous writings.

The league’s decision emphasizes the importance of maintaining professionalism in interactions between players and the media, stressing that such behavior is unacceptable regardless of the circumstances.