Philadelphia 76ers star Joel Embiid has been suspended for three games without pay following an altercation with Philadelphia Inquirer columnist Marcus Hayes after the 76ers’ loss to the Memphis Grizzlies. The NBA announced the suspension Tuesday, citing a breach of professional conduct.
“Mutual respect is paramount to the relationship between players and media,” said Joe Dumars, the NBA’s executive vice president of basketball operations. Dumars acknowledged that while personal references in Hayes’ column angered Embiid, physical retaliation is unacceptable.
The suspension will cause Embiid to miss upcoming games against the LA Clippers, Los Angeles Lakers, and Charlotte Hornets. He’s slated to return next Tuesday against the New York Knicks.
The incident occurred after Hayes’ column referenced Embiid’s son and late brother, both named Arthur, while questioning Embiid’s professionalism. Despite an apology and column edits from Hayes, Embiid rejected the gesture. His suspension will cost him $1,063,778 in salary.
Joel Embiid has yet to play for the Philadelphia 76ers this season, but he did get into a physical altercation with a reporter.
According to ESPN, Embiid shoved Philadelphia Inquirer columnist Marcus Hayes after he wrote about Embiid’s son and late brother in a column. Embiid named his son Arthur after his brother. Hayes mentioned the two while questioning Embiid’s professionalism and absences from the team.
As Hayes entered the locker room after a 124-107 loss to the Memphis Grizzlies, Embiid confronted him. “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 said.
Hayes offered an apology but Embiid rejected it. The words continued with Embiid eventually pushing Hayes.
“We take the situation very seriously and are investigating, and have already spoken to the NBA,” Sixers president of basketball operations Daryl Morey said in a statement.
Joel Embiid allegedly got into a physical altercation with Philadelphia Inquirer reporter Marcus Hayes after the Philadelphia 76ers’ loss to the Memphis Grizzlies on Saturday night. According to ESPN’s Shams Charania, Embiid became upset with Hayes and an argument ensued which eventually turned physical. The NBA is reportedly investigating the incident.
Hayes published a column for the Inquirer, criticizing Embiid for his work ethic while referencing his son and late brother. “Joel Embiid consistently points to the birth of his son, Arthur, as the major inflection point in his basketball career. He often says that he wants to be great to leave a legacy for the boy named after his little brother, who tragically died in an automobile accident when Embiid was in his first year as a 76er. Well, in order to be great at your job, you first have to show up for work. Embiid has been great at just the opposite,” Hayes wrote in the controversial piece.
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. (Photo by Justin Casterline/Getty Images)
Prior to the incident, Embiid fired back at his critics bringing up his work ethic and targeted Hayes specifically. “When I see people say ‘he does not wanna play,’ I’ve done way too much for this city, putting myself at risk for people to be saying that,” Embiid said on Friday. “I do think this is bulls***. Like that dude, he’s not here, Marcus, I’ve done way too much for this f***ing city to be treated like this. Done way too f***ing much. I wish I was as lucky as the other ones, but that does not mean I’m not doing whatever it takes to be out there, which I’m gonna be.”
Joel Embiid Goes After Columnist
Footage of the incident has yet to surfaced but check out Charania’s report below. With the loss, the 76ers fell to 1-4 on the season. Be on the lookout for further updates on Joel Embiid on HotNewHipHop.
76ers’ Joel Embiid got in an altercation with a columnist following tonight’s game in Philadelphia. Embiid took issue with a recent column that referenced his late brother and son, and Embiid shoved the columnist. No punch.
In a major offseason move, free agent forward Paul George has committed to a lucrative four-year, $212 million contract with the Philadelphia 76ers, sources confirmed to ESPN early Monday. The deal includes a player option for the final season in 2027-28, providing flexibility for the nine-time All-Star.
George’s decision reunites him with the Eastern Conference, where he aims to bolster the 76ers’ lineup alongside MVP center Joel Embiid and rising star Tyrese Maxey — their collective goal: challenging the reigning NBA champions, the Boston Celtics.
According to ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski, Negotiations culminated after a pivotal meeting in Los Angeles between George, represented by agent Aaron Mintz of CAA, and key 76ers personnel, including owner Josh Harris and basketball operations head Daryl Morey. Sixers legend Julius Erving and former Pacers executive Peter Dinwiddie’s presence underscored Philadelphia’s commitment to securing George’s signature.
The 34-year-old forward, known for his scoring prowess and defensive acumen, left the LA Clippers after five seasons, during which time he averaged 23 points, six rebounds, 4.5 assists, and 1.5 steals per game.
“Paul is a tremendous talent and an elite two-way player. We feel fortunate for the five years we spent with him,” the Clippers releases in a statement. “Over that span, he went to three All-Star Games, made the most 3-pointers in franchise history and helped lead the team to a place it had never been. His performances in Games 5 and 6 against Utah in 2021 won’t be forgotten by anyone associated with the Clippers.
“We traded a lot to pair Paul and Kawhi [Leonard], and in exchange, we had five seasons of contention. Even though we fell short of our ultimate objective, we appreciate the chances we had with Paul.”
Sources disclosed on Sunday that in addition to George, Philadelphia has bolstered its roster with signings, including shooting guard Kelly Oubre Jr. on a two-year, $16.3 million deal and agreements with veteran guard Eric Gordon and center Andre Drummond.
After Knicks fans took over Philidelphia earlier in the series, 76ers fans are fighting back. The Philadelphia 76ers, who are in danger of losing to the New York Knicks in Game 6 of the NBA Playoffs, are making preparations to make the most of their homecourt advantage. In the Sixers’ Game 4 loss to the Knicks, the Sixer’s home arena had a large volume of Knicks fans. The Sixers ownership group has bought 2,000 tickets for tonight’s game to combat Knicks fans infiltrating their home court. The ownership group will reportedly donate those seats to “first responders, health care professionals, and other local Philadelphia-based organizations.”
The 76ers survived Game 5 at Madison Square Garden thanks to some miraculous late-game heroics from Tyrese Maxey. However, the Knicks lost their chance to clinch the series due to crunch-time decision-making. Now, the Knicks look to end the series tonight. However, the Philadelphia 76ers are trying to pull out all the stops. They are trying to do everything possible to give their team the best chance to force a game 7.
In particular, star center Joel Embiid had harsh words for the environment at the Sixers’ Wells Fargo Center following the Sixers’ 97-92 loss on Sunday that dropped them to a 3-1 deficit. “I love our fans. Think it’s unfortunate, and I’m not calling them out, but it is disappointing. Obviously, you got a lot of Knicks fans, and they’re down the road,” Embiid said. “Yeah, it kind of pisses me off, especially because Philly is considered a sports town. They’ve always shown up, and I don’t think that should happen. Yeah, it’s not OK.”
The Sixers season is on the line tonight. The Knicks and 76ers series has been the most entertaining first-round matchup of the NBA playoffs. The drama and quality of every game has been phenomenal. There has been controversy and several memorable moments. The fans have been rising to the occasion, especially Knicks fans and their cohort of celebrity fans. Overall, tonight is a must-win game for the 76ers and a must-watch game for hoop-heads. Hopefully, it will be just as good as every other game in the series.
Tyrese Maxey’s star continued to rise on Tuesday night in New York City as he delivered a Playoff career-high performance. He scored 46 points to propel the Philadelphia 76ers to a thrilling 112-106 overtime victory over the Knicks, forcing a crucial Game 6 back in Philadelphia.
Maxey’s heroics in the final moments of regulation sparked an unforgettable comeback, etching his name in Sixers lore. His seven-point flurry in the last 25 seconds marked a historic achievement, with the Sixers becoming the first team in the play-by-play era to win a Playoff game when trailing by 6+ points in the final moments.
The young guard’s clutch shooting, including a game-tying 35-footer from the logo, showcased his fearless mentality and ability to rise to the occasion. Maxey’s performance overshadowed a stellar showing from Knicks’ guard Brunson, as he outdueled him in a clash of first-time All-Stars.
Alongside Maxey’s brilliance, Joel Embiid’s historic triple-double performance further solidified the Sixers’ dominance. Embiid’s remarkable stat line of 19 points, 16 rebounds, ten assists, and four blocks highlighted his invaluable contributions to the team’s success.
The Sixers’ epic rally mirrored the stunning finish of Game 2, illustrating the resilience and determination of both teams in the series. With Game 6 looming, the Sixers have breathed new life into their Playoff campaign, determined to seize victory on their home court and continue their pursuit of Playoff glory.
Game 6 is back in Philly on Thursday. You can see the crazy finish below.
Meek Mill spoke out on Joel Embiid and Philadelphia fans after the 76ers lost in Game 4 of their playoff series against the New York Knicks on Sunday. Embiid had admitted he was disappointed when away fans made more noise at the Wells Fargo Center than home fans during the loss. In turn, hometown rapper Meek Mill threatened to come to New York for Game 5 to show Knicks fans the same treatment.
“How people acting like they turning on Joel,” Meek wrote in his post. “Trust the process wins and losses. I’m coming to next knicks game we gotta rep like they did that whole arena was half knicks fans … let’s play our part no blame game get you to a chip!”
PHILADELPHIA, PENNSYLVANIA – APRIL 28: Joel Embiid #21 of the Philadelphia 76ers reacts during the fourth quarter against the New York Knicks during game four of the Eastern Conference First Round Playoffs at the Wells Fargo Center on April 28, 2024, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Tim Nwachukwu/Getty Images)
During Game 4, Knicks fans erupted in MVP chants whenever Jalen Brunson made a shot, especially towards the end of the game. During the fourth quarter, Embiid scored just 1 point on 0-for-5 shooting. “I love our fans,” he said after the game. “I think it’s unfortunate. I’m not calling them out, but it is disappointing. Obviously, you got a lot of Knicks fans. They’re down the road. But I’ve never seen it (like that), and I’ve been here for 10 years. It kind of pisses me off, especially because Philly is considered a sports town. I don’t think that should happen.” Sixers guard Tyrese Maxey also noticed how loud the Knicks fans were, but clarified, “our crowd did a great job.”
Meek Mill Speaks Out
How people acting like they turning on Joel trust the process wins and losses I’m coming to next knicks game we gotta rep like they did that whole arena was half knicks fans … let’s play our part no blame game get you to a chip!
Michael Rubin, a prominent figure in the world of sports and entrepreneurship, has been a significant player in various ventures. With a net worth of $11.5 billion, according to Forbes, his journey from humble beginnings to the helm of several successful businesses is certainly nothing short of remarkable.
(Photo by Shareif Ziyadat/Getty Images for United Justice Coalition)
Rubin’s foray into entrepreneurship started early. As a young adult, he delved into the retail world, building his own business. His astute business acumen and innate knack for spotting opportunities moved him forward. These foundational experiences laid the groundwork for what would become a stellar career marked by pioneering ventures and groundbreaking achievements.
Rubin’s ascent in the sports industry accelerated when he assumed the role of CEO at Fanatics. Under his leadership, Fanatics became a trailblazer in licensed sports merchandise, revolutionizing the way fans connect with their favorite teams and athletes. Moreover, the company’s massive growth and innovative strategies have significantly contributed to Rubin’s amassed wealth, solidifying his position as a key figure in the sports retail sector.
Apart from his pivotal role at Fanatics, Rubin’s influence extends further into the realm of professional sports. His partnerships with esteemed organizations such as the Philadelphia 76ers and the New Jersey Devils have not only bolstered these franchises but also underscored Rubin’s profound impact on the sports landscape. However, he later sold his stakes in Harris Blitzer Sports & Entertainment in June 2022 to focus on expanding Fanatics.
Beyond his business success, Rubin is recognized for his dedication to social causes. As a co-chairman of the REFORM Alliance, he stands at the forefront of efforts to reform the criminal justice system. Furthermore, his commitment to effecting positive change and advocating for social justice issues demonstrates his multifaceted approach to leveraging his influence for meaningful societal impact.
Conclusion
Rubin’s journey, from a driven entrepreneur to a powerhouse in the sports industry and a visionary advocate for social change, reflects a trajectory marked by determination, innovation, and a relentless pursuit of excellence. His diverse portfolio of accomplishments not only highlights his financial success but also underscores his broader commitment to making a significant difference in various spheres.
Michael Rubin’s net worth of $11.5 billion stands as a testament to his unwavering dedication, strategic vision, and ability to navigate and excel in multifaceted domains. As he continues to shape the sports industry and champion social causes, Rubin’s influence remains poised to make enduring impacts in the years to come.
Michael Rubin’s entrepreneurial spirit, coupled with his transformative leadership, is emblematic of a visionary figure whose legacy transcends mere financial achievements, leaving an indelible mark on industries and societal causes alike.
Philadelphia 76ers guard Kelly Oubre Jr. is in stable condition at the hospital after being struck by a car in Center City, Philadelphia on Saturday night. He was walking near his residence at the time of the incident. According to ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski, representatives from the team, including 76ers President Daryl Morey, are with the 27-year-old as of publishing.
While they expect him to miss significant time due to his injuries, they don’t believe his season is over. Further details on the extent of those injuries are unclear. In a statement on Twitter, the team confirmed: “We will share more information as it becomes available. Please join us in sending our best to Kelly And his family as he recovers from the incident.” In an email provided to the Associated Press, local police confirmed that there is an active investigation into the incident.
PHILADELPHIA, PENNSYLVANIA – NOVEMBER 02: Kelly Oubre Jr. #9 of the Philadelphia 76ers reacts during the second quarter against the Toronto Raptors at the Wells Fargo Center on November 02, 2023 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Tim Nwachukwu/Getty Images)
In response to the team’s Twitter statement, fans shared plenty of supportive messages. “Prayers up for Oubre Jr. He was having a fantastic start for you guys,” one user replied. Another wrote: “Prayers up for Kelly and his family. Absolutely horrifying situation.”
Oubre joined the Sixers on a one-year, minimum-salary contract, last offseason. He’s currently averaging 16.3 points per game on 50.0% shooting in eight games. Amid his stellar play, he replaced P.J. Tucker in the starting lineup after he, along with James Harden, was sent to the Los Angeles Clippers. The Washington Wizards originally selected Oubre in the first round of the NBA draft back in 2015. He’s also played for the Phoenix Suns, Golden State Warriors, and Charlotte Hornets. The 76ers will take on the Indiana Pacers at home on Sunday. Be on the lookout for further updates on Oubre on HotNewHipHop.
The Los Angeles Clippers have ended their pursuit of disgruntled Philadephia 76ers guard James Harden. According to ESPN’s Brian Windhorst, the Clippers called off the deal during negotiations.
“[The Clippers] tried to trade for James Harden, and that deal didn’t happen,” Windhorst said. “And from what I understand, it was the Clippers who said, ‘Okay, there’s no deal here. We’re gonna move on.’ And while I assume that they could certainly make a deal midseason, I assume that this is what they’re gonna go with.”
This now sets to bring a reluctact Harden into Sixers training camp, making for an unsettling group experience.
James Harden does not like the stories that were released about him over the past couple of days. Hitting Instagram, Harden released an Instagram story blasting the main report from ESPN.
Harden has openly expressed his desire to be traded from the Sixers, claiming the Los Angeles Clippers are his preferred landing spot.
In a new story on ESPN, Senior Writer Ramona Shelburne details a rocky season in the city of Brotherly Love, where some of his behavior put off then-coach Doc Rivers and Harden’s teammates.
In mid-December, Rivers lit into Harden for taking the final three shots in regulation of a double-overtime loss to the young and lottery-bound-again Rockets, sources said. It wasn’t that Rivers didn’t trust Harden to take the final three shots — he had allowed him to run the offense and call his own number on the final play of regulation by not calling a timeout following a defensive rebound. It’s that the Rockets had no answer for Embiid (39 points) all night and Harden wasn’t shooting well (4-for-19).
When questioned in the film session, Harden demurred, saying he just couldn’t get the ball to Embiid, sources said. These flare-ups between Harden and Rivers continued throughout the season.
– ESPN
After dropping back-to-back games to East contenders, Harden took an early flight to Miami, separate from the team, to enjoy nightlife. The move was stated to be a common practice for Harden but did not sit well with his teammates. A team meeting followed, leading to a win against the HEAT but a run that would include another second-round playoff ousting and Rivers being fired. The main reason Rivers is tossed is believed to be because Harden didn’t want to play for him in the future.
The NBA has fined James Harden $100,000 for August 14 and 17 comments against Daryl Morey and calling for a trade. The NBA’s note states Harden’s comments lead to believe he would not perform under his contract unless he plays for a team different than the Philadelphia 76ers.
The NBA revealed they investigated Harden, including an interview, before arriving at their final decision.
Last month, the Philadelphia 76ers called off all trade talks involving James Harden and stated they would expect Harden to be at training camp. Early Monday morning, NBA Insider Shams Charania shared a video from Harden’s China tour for Adidas in which he blasts 76ers president Daryl Morey. Morey and Harden have a relationship dating back to the Houston Rockets.
“Daryl Morey is a liar and I will never be a part of an organization that he’s a part of,” Harden told those gathered. “Let me say that again: Daryl Morey is a liar and I will never be a part of an organization that he’s a part of.”
James Harden: “Daryl Morey is a liar and I will never be a part of an organization that he’s a part of. Let me say that again: Daryl Morey is a liar and I will never be a part of an organization that he’s a part of.” pic.twitter.com/AmHJ0WwbF2
On Saturday, ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski ended trade talks for Harden, who has a preferred destination of the Los Angeles Clippers. Harden picked up his $35.6 million player option but the Sixers’ request for Harden was too high for most bidders.
I’m coming to next knicks game we gotta rep like they did that whole arena was half knicks fans … let’s play our part no blame game get you to a chip!
