Philadelphia 76ers center Joel Embiid stated that he faces more online hate than any other NBA player. On “The Check Ball Show” with Drew Hanlen, Embiid remarked, “I’m probably the most hated guy in the league. I don’t know why … I’m just cool. I don’t know what’s there to hate about me.”
At 30 years old, Embiid enjoyed a standout statistical season, averaging a career-high 34.7 points, 5.6 assists, and 11 rebounds per game. This marked his third consecutive season with an average of at least 30 points per game. Despite this, his season was marred by injuries. The 7-footer appeared in only 39 games and underwent surgery to address cartilage issues in his knee, marking his second arthroscopic procedure on his left meniscus. His injury status prevented him from qualifying for the league’s scoring title due to the NBA’s 65-game threshold.
Embiid acknowledged that he reads criticism and negative comments on social media, using them as motivation to enhance his performance. “I pay attention to it because I like it. Because that’s the motivation that I need. When you get to a certain level when you’ve accomplished a lot … you need something else to keep motivating you, and that’s one of the things,” he said.
In the playoffs, the Sixers were eliminated by the New York Knicks in the first round. Embiid averaged 33 points, 10.8 rebounds, and 5.7 assists over the six-game series.
Looking ahead, Embiid will make his Olympic debut representing Team USA, having chosen to play for the United States rather than Cameroon or France at the upcoming Paris Games.
