“I’m Not Joel”: Mo Bamba Takes A Hilarious Jibe At Joel Embiid’s Remark On Playing Back-To-Back Games

Philadelphia 76ers star Joel Embiid sparked controversy before his return from injury by declaring he wouldn’t play back-to-back games this season. While Embiid’s decision drew mixed reactions, NBA legend Shaquille O’Neal didn’t hold back, calling the move “soft.” The controversy also led to the NBA fining the 76ers $100,000 over public comments about Embiid’s health.

Embiid now faces criticism from his former 76ers teammate, Mo Bamba. During an interview with Tomer Azarly, the Los Angeles Clippers star made a lighthearted jab at Embiid’s remark.

“I’m not Joel. There’s definitely a plan in place. I think there was a little minute restriction there, but I didn’t reach those minutes, so going into tomorrow, I feel pretty comfortable,” Bamba answered.

Mo Bamba says he plans to play in back-to-backs 

“I am not Joe (Joel Embiid).”

(🎥 @TomerAzarly ) 

 pic.twitter.com/9jBQDxyLO9
— NBACentral (@TheDunkCentral) November 18, 2024

Unlike Embiid, Bamba has shown no hesitation about playing consecutive games after recovering from a knee injury. Bamba has appeared in back-to-back games this season. He scored 9 points against the Utah Jazz in his debut and added 3 points in the Clippers’ win over the Golden State Warriors.

Joel Embiid Leaves The Door Open For Back-to-Back Games

Joel Embiid recently backtracked on his earlier statement about not playing back-to-back games this season. Before the Philadelphia 76ers’ matchup against the Cleveland Cavaliers last Wednesday, Embiid addressed the topic in an interview with Justin Grasso for Sports Illustrated.

“I know I said I will never play back-to-backs, but I’m a troll. I’m sure at some point I’ll play [back-to-backs]. I feel good right now. We’ll see, but it’s up to them,” Embiid said.

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So far this season, Embiid has played three games, averaging 14.7 points and 6.3 rebounds per game. Despite his efforts, the bigger concern for the 76ers is their team record. With just two wins in 13 games, the Sixers now sit at the bottom of the Western Conference with a 2-11 record.

Also Read: Charles Barkley Explains Why He Was A Much Better “Pure Basketball Player” Than Shaquille O’Neal Ever Was