Embiid Returns: 76ers Celebrate After 8 Months of Absence in Preseason

Attention basketball fanatics! Joel Embiid’s long-awaited return to the court has finally materialized, marking a milestone for the 76ers.

Embiid Returns with Force

After almost eight months of absence, Joel Embiid returned to play with the 76ers in a preseason game against the Timberwolves’ reserves. The match, which culminated in a 126-110 victory for the 76ers at the Xfinity Mobile Arena, left positive feelings within the team and in Embiid himself, looking ahead to the start of the 2025-26 season.

I think the most important thing I felt was joy and how happy I was to be there, and how happy I was for him.

Tyrese Maxey

Embiid, who hadn’t played since February 22nd, when they faced the Nets, underwent arthroscopic surgery on his left knee. After several weeks of training, including a scrimmage open to the public, Embiid showed encouraging performance. In 18:35 minutes of play, Embiid recorded 14 points, 7 rebounds, 8 assists, 3 steals and 4 turnovers, shooting 5 of 10 from the field, including 2 of 4 from three-point range, and made both free throws.

I don’t want to think about the past. I’m in a good mental and physical moment. I’m happy to touch the ball and be able to play basketball and do what I love.

Joel Embiid

Embiid, visibly thinner, moved with ease and without the bulky knee brace he used last season. Coach Nick Nurse positively assessed his performance, highlighting his good movement, shooting, and passing.

Embiid, who only played 19 games last season, seems to be on track to participate in next week’s opening game in Boston. In addition to Embiid, the 76ers showed other positive aspects in the game. VJ Edgecombe, the number 3 pick in the NBA draft in June, scored 26 points, with 6 rebounds, 3 assists and 5 steals in 34 minutes. Quentin Grimes, for his part, made his preseason debut and contributed 22 points, 5 assists, and 3 steals in 26 minutes off the bench. Paul George, who is recovering from knee surgery, did not participate in the match and it seems that he will not be ready for the start of the season.