Embiid Returns: 76ers Star Plays After 8 Months Out

Triumphant return! Joel Embiid returns to the courts with the 76ers after almost eight months of absence. In an exciting preseason game against the Timberwolves, the 76ers’ star center showed that he is back and ready for the 2024-25 season. The match, which culminated in a 126-110 victory, was a positive test for Embiid and the team.

The most important thing I felt was joy and how happy I was to be out there.

Tyrese Maxey

Embiid, visibly emotional, expressed his happiness at returning to play basketball. His last participation with the 76ers was on February 22, before undergoing surgery on his left knee.

On Friday night, Embiid played 18 minutes and 35 seconds, scoring 14 points, grabbing 7 rebounds, dishing out 8 assists, stealing 3 balls, and committing 4 turnovers. In addition, he made 5 of 10 field goals, including 2 of 4 three-pointers, and made his two free throws.

I am happy to touch the ball and be able to play basketball and do what I love. 76ers coach Nick Nurse positively assessed Embiid’s performance, highlighting his good movement, shots, and passes.

Last season, Embiid only played 19 games, averaging 23.8 points, 8.2 rebounds, and 4.5 assists. However, in the preseason game, he showed a promising performance, indicating that he is on track to participate in next week’s opening game in Boston. In addition to Embiid, other players stood out in the match. VJ Edgecombe, the third pick in the NBA draft in June, scored 26 points, grabbed 6 rebounds, dished out 3 assists and stole 5 balls in 34 minutes. Quentin Grimes, for his part, made his preseason debut with 22 points, 5 assists and 3 steals in 26 minutes off the bench. Regarding absences, Paul George is still recovering from knee surgery and doesn’t seem to be ready for the opening game.