Joel Embiid And Sketchers Reportedly Close to Deal

Joel Embiid is reportedly close to landing a sneaker deal with Sketchers. The reigning MVP “is nearing a deal to become Skechers’ star pitchman, industry sources briefed on the talks told The Athletic. A deal has not been signed yet, but Embiid wore a Skechers shoe for the first time during 76ers practice Wednesday. The brand’s performance staff are on site as he begins to test out the sneaker, sources said. Embiid will begin wearing the new Skechers shoe in games once the deal is fully complete, according to a source,” Shams Charania and Mike Vorkunov of The Athletic reported.

Embiid was previously contracted to Under Armor. However, the deal was largely torpedoed by the pandemic. Embiid’s signature shoe was announced a month before the world went into lockdown. Furthermore, it failed to see any bounce back after restrictions eased. However, Sketchers is taking a risk. Bigs rarely make for good shoe lines. Furthermore, Embiid’s history of lower leg injuries inevitably puts a lot of scrutiny on his footwear. In short, Sketchers need to knock it out of the park on the first try.

Read More: Joel Embiid Declares For Team USA Ahead Of 2024 Olympics

Shaq Tabs Angel Reese For Reebok

However, Embiid isn’t the only person landing shoe deals. Angel Reese has signed an exclusive deal with Reebok, becoming the first athlete to join the sneaker brand since Shaq became the company’s President of Basketball. In an interview announcing the deal, Reese said that Shaq’s presence was a prominent factor in sealing the deal. “Now that he’s just been announced as their President of Basketball, that is inspirational to me, just being able to see an athlete or former athlete shift from not just being an athlete, but being the president of the brand is something that’s important. I would love to do that one day,” Reese said.

Shaq has previously called Reese the LSU GOAT and the two Tigers appear to share a close bond. While the terms of the deal were not announced, it’s a fairly unsurprising move given their history. Shaq was announced as the company’s new President of Basketball last week after the brand announced a major re-investment into the basketball market. Fellow Hall of Famer Allen Iverson was named the VP of Basketball at the same time.

Read More: Angel Reese Addresses Caitlin Clark Beef, Eyes Title Defense

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James Harden Loaded Up On Burgers From Bun B At Rolling Loud While Joel Embiid Got Married

This past weekend was an eventful one for the stars of the Philadelphia 76ers, as Joel Embiid got married on Saturday and thoroughly enjoyed himself, FaceTiming Meek Mill to rap “Dreams and Nightmares” to him from the ceremony while also dancing up a storm.

While that was happening and a handful of Embiid’s teammates were in attendance for his nuptials, James Harden and PJ Tucker were down in Miami enjoying themselves at Rolling Loud, where a video went viral of Harden grabbing four (4) hamburgers from legendary Houston rapper Bun B.

Listen, who among us has not been enjoying themselves at a concert, maybe had a few beverages, and not wanted to eat four hamburgers. I would do the same thing as Harden if presented with a tray of free burgers, so I am not going to be one to throw stones here.

That said, plenty of folks online began making connections between Harden’s statement (or maybe threat) earlier in the week to make things “uncomfortable” on his Instagram story amid the reports he’d be more than willing to report to camp and be a distraction should the Sixers not meet his trade request by October. Harden knows better than most how to turn up the heat on a team and make clear he doesn’t want to be there, as he put on some pounds in Houston when he wanted to leave the Rockets and made the Nets locker room miserable before being dealt to Philly. Maybe this is part of the program, maybe he’s taking burgers to some friends, or maybe he was just a very hungry fella. Either way, it is a pretty funny video of him just stacking burgers in his arms and disappearing into the night.

Joel Embiid Net Worth 2023: What Is The NBA Star Worth?

A distinctive melody begins in the heart of Africa, specifically in the thriving metropolis of Yaoundé, Cameroon. Joel Embiid was introduced to sports and competition not on a parquet court but on a grassy field. With a ball at his feet rather than in his hands, the future basketball prodigy kicked off his journey with soccer as his first love. Yet, the cadence of his destiny would soon change.

Basketball came calling, and Embiid responded enthusiastically, honing his craft with commitment and determination. By 2014, he had already traded the African savannah for the bright lights of the NBA. It was then the Philadelphia 76ers selected him as the third overall pick. This story, from Yaoundé to Pennsylvania, can be measured in one metric: $85 million, Embiid’s current net worth, as reported by CelebrityNetWorth.

Career Highlights & Accolades

joel embiid net worth
PHILADELPHIA, PENNSYLVANIA – MAY 11: Joel Embiid #21 of the Philadelphia 76ers reacts against the Boston Celtics during the fourth quarter in game six of the Eastern Conference Semifinals in the 2023 NBA Playoffs at Wells Fargo Center on May 11, 2023 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Tim Nwachukwu/Getty Images)

Embiid’s symphony on the court quickly struck a chord with fans and critics alike. His rookie year was met with injury, and his debut was delayed. However, 2017 sparked a crescendo. Embiid’s debut season brimmed with laudable performances and accolades, such as being named to the All-Rookie First Team. He has consistently achieved All-Star status, etching his name into the annals of NBA history. He remains one of the most sought-after players in the NBA. As rumors of his future with the Sixers abound, fans wait for more news by the second.

Personal Life & Highlights

joel embiid net worth
LOS ANGELES, CA – JULY 12: (L-R) NBA player Kevin Durant, winner of the Best Championship Performance award, actor Issa Rae, and NBA player Joel Embiid attend The 2017 ESPYS at Microsoft Theater on July 12, 2017 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Kevin Mazur/Getty Images)

Away from the limelight, Embiid’s life is less public but no less interesting. His playful social media presence echoes an accomplished musician’s light-hearted impromptu jam session. His famous tagline, “Trust the Process,” reflects not just his basketball philosophy but the rhythmic score of his life. It is a composition of patience, perseverance, and dedication. Also noteworthy is his romance with model Anne De Paula. Their son Arthur, named after Embiid’s late brother, represents a touching tribute, a moving verse in the ballad of Embiid’s life.

Business Ventures & Philanthropy

joel embiid net worth
PHILADELPHIA, PENNSYLVANIA – MAY 05: Joel Embiid #21 of the Philadelphia 76ers poses with the MVP trophy after being named 2022-23 Kia NBA Most Valuable Player prior to game three of the Eastern Conference Second Round Playoffs against the Boston Celtics at Wells Fargo Center on May 05, 2023 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Tim Nwachukwu/Getty Images)

Beyond the basketball court, Embiid plays a different tune. He’s not just a marquee sportsman but an entrepreneur and philanthropist. His endorsement portfolio includes a lucrative deal with Under Armour and a stake in FC Prishtina, a Kosovar soccer club, marking a nostalgic return to his soccer roots. His philanthropy sings a powerful chorus of giving and empathy. The Joel Embiid Foundation, launched in 2018, seeks to empower youth in his native Cameroon through sports and education. This charitable work is the counterpoint to his sporting achievements, a harmonious blend of personal success and communal betterment.

Conclusion

joel embiid net worth
TORONTO, ON – APRIL 20: Joel Embiid #21 of the Philadelphia 76ers looks on in the first half of Game Three of the Eastern Conference First Round against the Toronto Raptors at Scotiabank Arena on April 20, 2022 in Toronto, Canada. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Cole Burston/Getty Images)

So there you have it, the maestro of the hardwood, Joel Embiid. His journey from Cameroon to the NBA is a compelling concerto, each note echoing with talent, determination, and resilience. He’s far more than just an accomplished basketball player; he’s a businessman, philanthropist, and an icon — a man worth more than his $85 million net worth, a man worth admiring.

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Joel Embiid Reacts To James Harden Trade Request

Joel Embiid and James Harden have made a solid duo over the past couple of seasons. However, they have not been able to get out of the second round. Throughout Embiid’s career, he has yet to make it into the Eastern Conference Finals. Overall, it is a bit of a disappointment, and fans will not let him forget about it. Although, with a little bit of help and even some luck, Embiid could definitely win an NBA title. The conditions for such a thing to happen just need to be 100 percent perfect.

Now, however, James Harden is asking for a trade out of Philadelphia. This could seriously mess up the team given their circumstances. If the return for Harden is no good, there will be no second superstar on the team. This would subsequently make the Sixers a lesser team. Moreover, it would put more of a burden on Joel Embiid. Having said that, it should come as absolutely no surprise that Embiid is very much interested in Harden staying with the team.

Read More: Joel Embiid Trade Rumors Starting To Swirl

Joel Embiid Speaks Out

Recently, Joel Embiid got to speak with none other than Rachel Nichols about the James Harden situation. Overall, Embiid is asking Harden to stick around. Simply put, he wants the superstar to reconsider his life choices here. The reigning MVP firmly believes that if Harden were to stay, the team could compete for an NBA title. Although, there is really no evidence of that right now. Against the Boston Celtics, the Sixers were unable to get the job done and there is currently no indication that the Sixers are getting significantly better.

Unfortunately, it is going to continue to be a very difficult off-season for the Philadelphia 76ers. They have some big decisions to make that could ultimately also decide Joel Embiid’s future. Hopefully, for those fans, they don’t have to restart the process, anytime soon. Let us know what you think is going to happen, in the comments section below. Additionally, stay tuned to HNHH for more news from around the sports world.

Read More: James Harden Gives Joel Embiid A Rolex For Winning MVP

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Knicks News: What Does The Mo Bamba Signing Mean For Joel Embiid?

The Sixers signed Mo Bamba on Wednesday, adding the former sixth-overall pick to their rotation. Bamba was traded midway through the 2022-23 season, leaving Orlando for the Lakers. However, he played just nine games for LA and was officially waived in late June. Bamba has never really lived up to his sixth-overall selection, especially considering the other players taken in that 2018 draft. In fact, Orlando eventually replaced Bamba with the guy taken one pick after him, Wendall Carter Jr.

However, he will provide some depth behind MVP Joel Embiid at the center position, especially if the Sixers let current backup center Paul Reed go in free agency. But an interesting thread that can be pulled with the Bamba signing is where this leaves recent rumors connecting the New York Knicks to Sixers starter Joel Embiid.

Could The Knicks Make A Play For Embiid?

Joel Embiid
BOSTON, MASSACHUSETTS – MAY 14: Joel Embiid #21 of the Philadelphia 76ers reacts against the Boston Celtics during the first quarter in game seven of the 2023 NBA Playoffs Eastern Conference Semifinals at TD Garden on May 14, 2023 in Boston, Massachusetts. (Photo by Adam Glanzman/Getty Images)

It’s no secret that the Knicks want Embiid. They have reportedly been eyeing the MVP center for some time and are reportedly serious about potentially trying to swing a massive trade for him. While the Sixers have been fairly adamant that there’s no way Embiid will be leaving the team, the Knicks remain hopeful. Now, the Sixers have gone and signed a serviceable player at Embiid’s position. Naturally, the intention is for Bamba to play behind Embiid. But could he play instead of him?

Furthermore, the Sixers are in a state of flux. They are currently trying to work out a trade for James Harden, who has made it clear he wants out of Philly. Meanwhile, the Knicks are in the perfect place to make a ridiculously lucrative trade for Embiid. They have nine first-round picks between now and 2030. They could also have two more first-rounders, depending on how badly the Wizards and Pistons play for the next couple of years. Additionally, they have a stable of young talent that the Sixers could immediately utilize. So while the trade is unlikely, it’s possible at the very least. And now the Sixers have stacked up at the position affected most by it.

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Joel Embiid Trade Rumors Starting To Swirl

Despite the NBA playoffs reaching their climax, there is plenty of fuel for the rumor mill. Whether it’s the Suns low-key rebuilding or the Trail Blazers making major draft moves, no teams are safe from the rumors. NBA fans should prepare themselves for a monster offseason across the league. Of course, HotNewHipHop will have all the latest news in terms of moves and rumors.

A little further east, the Sixers are looking at an uncertain future. Despite having the reigning MVP, and seeming like one of the better teams during the regular season, Philadelphia sucked in the playoffs. After seeing off the Nets, the Sixers squandered multiple chances to see off the Celtics in the second round. That led to yet another second-round exit, and the departure of head coach Doc Rivers. However, Rivers may not be the only core piece leaving.

The Knicks Want Embiid

PHILADELPHIA, PENNSYLVANIA – FEBRUARY 10: Joel Embiid #21 of the Philadelphia 76ers shoots a lay up past Isaiah Hartenstein #55 of the New York Knicks during the third quarter at Wells Fargo Center on February 10, 2023 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Tim Nwachukwu/Getty Images)

We already know that James Harden is not returning to Philadelphia. However, rumors are starting to swirl about another member of the team. Joel Embiid, star Sixers center and reigning MVP, has started to be linked with a move away from Philadelphia. While it’s pertinent to state that these are very early rumors right now, they could soon “grow legs”. Furthermore, this is coming from some of the most connected media voices in the game.

NBA insider Marc Stein responded to questions about the Knicks and Embiid in a recent Substack Q&A. He called the rumor “strictly media chatter” and that “There are no legs to it…YET.” However, this can be paired with a few other sources. The New York Post‘s Stefan Bondy claims that Embiid “is the guy to watch for the Knicks” and has been since midseason. Furthermore, Bondy also notes that the Boston series “only intensified that belief.” While there is no indication that Embiid wants to leave, the Knicks could offer a monster package. The team has plenty of young players and 11 first-round picks over the next seven years. Do you think Embiid will leave the Sixers? Let us know in the comments.

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Damian Lillard Questions Joel Embiid For Comments After Brutal Game 7 Loss

Damian Lillard was thrown off by Joel Embiid’s comments after the Philadelphia 76ers were blown out by the Boston Celtics 112-88 in Game 7 of the Eastern Conference Semifinals, Sunday. Despite winning the Most Valuable Player award, Embiid put up just 15 points on 5-18 attempts with the season on the line. When asked about the game afterward, Embiid admitted that he needed to play better, but added that he can’t carry the team by himself. Lillard wasn’t happy when he saw the comments on Twitter.

“We got an unfinished job. We haven’t won anything,” Embiid said when asked about his and James Harden’s future. “And I think we got the chance to win. Obviously going to seven games and having a chance to close it out at home, which we didn’t do, I still believe we got the chance to win. We got what it takes to win. So obviously, I don’t know what’s going on. And I know he has a player option or they can extend him. But that’s on [the front office] to figure it out, I’m gonna stay out of it. But I still believe that me and him, we got the chance to win.”

Read More: Joel Embiid Comments On MVP Race

Joel Embiid During Game 7

BOSTON, MASSACHUSETTS – MAY 14: Joel Embiid #21 of the Philadelphia 76ers controls the ball against Al Horford #42 of the Boston Celtics during the first quarter in game seven of the 2023 NBA Playoffs Eastern Conference Semifinals at TD Garden on May 14, 2023 in Boston, Massachusetts. (Photo by Adam Glanzman/Getty Images)

He continued: “But it’s gonna take more than us. We all gotta look at ourselves. I gotta be better and I will be better. That’s what I’m focused on. All of us, we got to come back and find ways to just keep improving and help the team. We can’t win alone, I can’t win alone, me and James, we just can’t win alone. That’s why basketball is played 5-on-5. So, we just need everybody to just trying to keep finding ways to get better. And we’ll be fine.”

In response to the comments, Lillard wrote, “Huh?” Unfortunately for Lillard, The Portland Trail Blazers finished 13th in the Western Conference, far outside of playoff contention.

Damian Lillard’s Response

The Celtics will now take on the Heat in the Eastern Conference Finals while the Lakers will be playing the Nuggets in the West. Both series are rematches of the 2020 playoffs, which were held in the NBA Bubble.

Read More: Ben Simmons Appears To Troll 76ers After Blowout Playoff Loss

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Underdog Fantasy Offers Hilarious Promotion For Sixers-Celtics

Underdog Fantasy is a newer name in the world of sports betting, but they have wasted no time in making a splash. They can be seen sponsoring the likes of Kofie Yeboah and ThatsGoodSports. Their primary selling point is that they aren’t like other betting platforms, putting the fun in “draining your FUNds on Jordan Poole.”

However, it’s rare that you see a betting platform hit #1 on the Twitter trending page. You’d think that would be because they did something heinous. Betting platforms also trend when there is a ridiculous story. These are usually about mega bets gone wrong or something similar. However, Underdog Fantasy is hitting the top of the trending page thanks to a hilarious new promotion.

Win $1000 For Embiid Flopping

Posted on May 11, Underdog Fantasy found the perfect way to engage fans ahead of a pivotal Game 6 between the Celtics and Sixers. “Every time Joel Embiid falls on the floor tonight, we will give away $1,000 to a random entrant who quote tweets this with their Underdog username and includes #UnderdogFantasy,” the tweet reads. A follow-up tweet states that entries will close at 7pm on May 11. Additionally, winners will receive their prize in “underdog credit” on May 12. Although, all of this could hilariously backfire if Embiid stays on his feet tonight. Underdog Fantasy has not provided an over/under on Embiid’s FPG (flops per game).

While Joel Embiid’s flopping antics are not the worst in the NBA, they are definitely noticeable. Furthermore, they have been especially scrutinized during the playoffs. One particular incident of note came when Embiid got off lightly for kicking Nic Claxton in the nuts during Game 3 against the Nets. However, what exactly is Underdog hoping for here? Do they want a clean game from Embiid so they don’t have to shell out thousands of dollars? Or are they hoping that his flopping antics will generate revenues that outweigh the flop cost? Because even if it essentially store credit that’s being paid out, that money still has to come from somewhere. What do you think about all this? Let us know in the comments below.

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SOURCE SPORTS: James Harden Hits Game-Winner to Knot Sixers-Celtics Series at 2-2

James Harden Hits Game-Winner to Knot Sixers-Celtics Series at 2-2

James Harden is fighting against those playoff performance allegations. For the second time in the Philadelphia 76ers’ Eastern Conference Semifinals matchup against the Boston Celtics, Harden has led the team to victory.

With 19 seconds left in Game 3 and the Sixers staring at a 3-1 hole, Harden swished a corner 3-pointer to lead the Sixers to a 116-115 overtime victory. Harden finished the game with 42 points on 16-for-23 shooting. He also had eight rebounds, nine assists, and four steals.

Harden’s tag team partner, league MVP Joel Embiid, added 34 points and 13 rebounds.

In the postgame, Harden reveals a message from head coach Doc Rivers, including a gospel song that may have assisted in his performance.

“I’m on my way to the game, and I get a text from Doc,” Harden to ESPN. “It’s a gospel song, and I’m like, ‘All right, whatever.’ So, I just tell my homies, ‘Let’s play the song.’ It’s a seven-minute song, but I let the whole song play.”

He added, “I was like, ‘All right, there’s got to be some kind of good juju in this song, or however he’s feeling, I want to feel like that.’ And I guess it worked.”

The series will now shift back to Boston for Game 5 on Tuesday.

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James Harden Gives Joel Embiid A Rolex For Winning MVP

On May 2, Joel Embiid became the first Sixer since Allen Iverson in 2001 to be named NBA MVP. While many expected Denver’s Nikola Jokic to become the first back-to-back-to-back MVP since Larry Bird, Embiid pulled away in the final weeks of the season. However, Embiid’s MVP was far from unanimous. Embiid received 73 of 100 first-place votes, but two writers even voted Embiid as low as third. Jokic received 15 first-place votes while the Bucks’ Giannis Antetokounmpo received 12.

Despite this, Embiid’s MVP has been a long time coming for many people. He finished second in voting to Jokic the past two years. While Embiid has been in the NBA for nearly a decade now, he has truly begun to come into his own in the past few seasons. In recognition of finally earning the title, he received a very special gift from one of his teammates. And Embiid’s reaction is nothing short of heart-meltingly sweet.

Harden Gives Embiid A Rolex

The Sixers posted the moment that James Harden surprised Embiid with the gift on social media. The gift in question is a rose-gold Rolex. Embiid can’t believe it as he opens the box in front of assorted media. “Oooooo, my first Rolex, ” Embiid can be heard while struggling to find his words, “I’ve never had a Rolex”. Harden then takes the watch and turns it over to reveal that “23 MVP” has been engraved on the back of the watch’s face.

After embracing Harden, Embiid then struggles to put the watch on. As he attempts to simply shove it over his fist, he asks the associated individuals, “how do you wear watches?” Finally he gives up, declaring it to be too small for his wrist. I don’t know if Rolexes have clasps but no one attempts to unclasp the watch at any point in the video. This is understandable as later in the video, Embiid reveals that this is not just his first Rolex, this is his first watch ever. Sure, the Sixers would go on to get blown out in their game later that day. But this video is just adorable. It just goes to show the level of team spirit that the Sixers embody.

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