The Philadelphia 76ers Christmas Day was almost ruined, but luckily, Joel Embiid bounced back and saved it. During last night’s Sixers vs. Boston Celtics game, fans were worried about an on-court incident during the warmup time. They got lucky, and it ultimately ended well for them.
The 76ers superstar Joel Embiid had quite the laughable moment. Just 45 minutes before the game tipped off, Embiid got in some shots. Then he accidentally backed up into a security barrier that separates players from courtside fans. The unfortunate stumble sent him tumbling to the floor, twisting his right ankle in the process. While it was a sight that probably left fans and teammates chuckling, it briefly made everybody question whether he would make it to the game.
Despite the unexpected setback, Embiid was determined not to let a little mishap ruin his holiday spirit. After taking a moment to collect himself and ice his ankle, he returned to the court just in time to join his teammates for warmups. He remained competitive throughout the game, playing for 31 minutes, scoring 27 points and grabbing nine rebounds. He helped lead the Sixers to a 118-114 victory.
this is how Embiid got injured in warmups pic.twitter.com/MIUrNDzORd
— LakeShowYo (@LakeShowYo) December 25, 2024
This season, Embiid has faced his fair share of challenges. His struggle includes a lingering left knee issue and a recent sinus fracture that kept him off the court for a while. Nevertheless, he has been comparatively brave in bouncing back each time.
Also Read: Joel Embiid Reflects On How Paul George’s Immense Support Helped Him Amid Ongoing Health Issues
Joel Embiid Got ‘High Ceiling’ Against Boston Celtics
The 76ers’ victory over the Celtics on Christmas Day was a significant turning point for a team that seemed hopeless just a month ago. After starting the season with a dismal 3-14 record, questions began to swirl about their future and whether they should focus on draft picks rather than playoff contention.
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However, this latest win is their eighth in the last 11 games, taking them upward in the Eastern Conference standings. Joel Embiid, despite nursing an ankle injury, was as confident as ever.
Tyrese Maxey was the 🌟 at the top of the tree for Philly on #NBAXmas!
— NBA (@NBA) December 26, 2024
🎄 33 PTS
🎄 12 AST
🎄 3 STL
🎄 3 3PM
The 76ers are 8-3 in their last 11! pic.twitter.com/gPee22UXnF
“We got a high ceiling. It’s all about us putting it together. I don’t think that was close to our best basketball, but we got a pretty good chance. So it’s all about looking for some luck and staying healthy,” Embiid said after beating the defending champions.
However, Philly executed crucial plays. They maintained a substantial turnover differential and were impressive at the free-throw line, going 19-for-19. Alongside Embiid, Tyrese Maxey also performed exceptionally with 33 points and 12 assists.
