PHILADELPHIA — Following a disappointing loss to the Memphis Grizzlies, Joel Embiid became visibly agitated and engaged in a heated confrontation with Marcus Hayes, a columnist for the Philadelphia Inquirer, in the locker room. The altercation has prompted the NBA to launch an investigation into the incident.
Embiid was upset with Hayes, who had mentioned the center’s late brother and his son, both of whom share the name Arthur, in recent columns raising concerns about Embiid’s professionalism and fitness levels after his participation in the Paris Olympics. Notably, Embiid has yet to step onto the court for the 76ers this season.
As reporters entered the locker room to interview players, Embiid confronted Hayes directly. “If you ever mention my deceased brother and my son again, you’ll understand what I’m capable of, and I’ll have to deal with the repercussions,” Embiid warned Hayes. The situation escalated as Embiid continued speaking, using strong language to express his frustration. In response to Hayes’ attempt at an apology, Embiid dismissed him, saying, “That’s not the f——— first time.”
Despite Embiid’s insistence that he disregards the opinions of reporters, Hayes pointed out that the opposite seemed true. This exchange resulted in Embiid raising his voice, and shortly after, he shoved Hayes on the shoulder. At that moment, the team’s public relations officer intervened in an effort to separate the two. Another PR representative moved Tyrese Maxey’s interview to the hallway to clear the area of reporters.
In the middle of this chaos, a security staff member requested that the media refrain from reporting on the confrontation. However, Embiid shouted over the guard, asserting, “They can do whatever they want. I don’t give a s—-.”
Earlier in the week, Embiid had mentioned Hayes during a press conference at the team’s training facility, referring to him disparagingly and challenging critics regarding his extended absence from the game. Hayes had previously written a piece claiming that Embiid had shown a lack of respect for both the 76ers and the sport itself, suggesting that the franchise ought to consider offering refunds to fans when Embiid is not on the court.
“I’ve given too much to this city to be treated like this,” Embiid expressed on Friday. “I would love to be as fortunate as others, but that doesn’t mean I’m not trying. I’m doing everything I can to get back out there, and I will be there soon.”
Hayes was absent from Friday’s practice, and there remains uncertainty regarding when Embiid will finally return to action. The ongoing investigation by the NBA will look into the situation to see if any disciplinary measures will be imposed.
