The 76ers’ 111-106 win over the San Antonio Spurs on Monday night is something that has become the talk of the town, not because of the 76ers’ win, but because of Joel Embiid, who was ejected for the second time in his career and got really upset. The situation got so bad that several teammates and assistant coaches had to hold him back before he left the court.
The incident happened with 2:59 left in the first half when Embiid charged at Wembanyama and knocked him down. Embiid was called for a charging foul. Embiid did not stop and quickly received a second technical foul, which resulted in his ejection after he began to argue with the officials.
Several people had to hold him back as he kept yelling at the official who kicked him out. Embiid didn’t talk about the incident afterward. A team official said Embiid left the arena when reporters were in the locker room after the game.
Chaos in 76ers vs. Spurs 2nd quarter:
— Underdog NBA (@Underdog__NBA) December 24, 2024
– Andre Drummond ejected for two technical fouls
– Drummond's ejection overturned; Wemby called for flopping instead
– Wemby's flopping technical foul overturned
– Embiid ejected for screaming at the refpic.twitter.com/EtkibeCmN4
Monday’s game was only the fifth time Philly’s “Big Three”—Embiid, Paul George, and Tyrese Maxey—started together. Tyrese Maxey played a huge role in the win, scoring 32 points with 10 rebounds and 8 assists.
As for Embiid, he was still recovering from a sinus fracture, wearing a mask for just his second game back. He scored 9 points and grabbed 3 rebounds in 14 minutes.
Joel Embiid should stick with the mask through the entire season
Joel Embiid has been wearing a protective mask after his sinus fracture, which is now considered beneficial for both him and the 76ers. Embiid has had facial injuries before, and the mask prevents further damage while letting him play at his best.
“no one cared who I was until I put on the mask.” pic.twitter.com/EtcxJfbIpz
— Philadelphia 76ers (@sixers) December 21, 2024
The 76ers have struggled without him, with a 7-11 record in games he missed. Although Joel dislikes wearing the mask, it’s important for his protection and the team’s success, even after his injury heals.
