Joel Embiid Opens Up About Wild Incident Before Win Over Celtics

Christmas Day proved to be pretty great for Joel Embiid, but it doesn’t start so hot.

Warming up before the 76ers’ matchup with the Celtics, Embiid stepped on a security guard’s foot and stumbled over a rope on a TD Garden sideline. The Philadelphia big man remained on the floor for a bit and was seen favoring the low portion of his right leg.

The bizarre incident didn’t prevent Embiid from playing, nor did it stop him from having a huge impact against Boston. The 2023 NBA MVP scored 27 points and pulled down nine rebounds in the visitors’ 118-114 win over the reigning champions.

Speaking with the media after the Sixers handed the C’s its second straight defeat, Embiid opened up about the unfavorable pregame scene.

“(It) was a little sore, but it’s Christmas. Gotta play in the Christmas game,” Embiid told reporters, per The Athletic. “Can’t feel bad about yourself. Life is life. It happens. You do whatever is necessary to get better and get back on the floor. But it is tough. But what can you do?”

Embiid also kept his wits about him after narrowly avoiding a serious injury. The star center took a cheeky shot at the Celtics after one of his teammates shined on Causeway Street.

Philadelphia won’t be back in Boston until March 6, but when that day arrives, one has to imagine Embiid will be extra cautious on the parquet floor.