Philadelphia 76ers center Joel Embiid has been handed a three-game suspension without pay after an altercation with local journalist Marcus Hayes, the NBA announced. The incident took place in the 76ers’ locker room following their 124-107 loss to the Memphis Grizzlies last Saturday. Embiid confronted Hayes over a critical column in the Philadelphia Inquirer, swearing at him and shoving him before a team official intervened.
The suspension is set to cost Embiid over $1 million in lost salary. Joe Dumars, head of NBA basketball operations, stated, “Mutual respect is paramount to the relationship between players and media in the NBA. While we understand Joel was offended by the personal nature of the original version of the reporter’s column, interactions must remain professional on both sides and can never turn physical.”
Hayes’ column had questioned Embiid’s professionalism and attitude, particularly after the 30-year-old missed games this season due to a left knee injury that required surgery in January. Although Embiid helped Team USA secure Olympic gold in Paris this summer, Hayes’ column also referenced Embiid’s son and late brother, which the All-Star player found particularly offensive. Hayes attempted to apologize for his comments, but his apology was rejected by Embiid.
Joel Embiid reportedly told journalist Marcus Hayes, “The next time you bring up my dead brother and my son again, you are going to see what I’m going to do to you and I’m going to have to… live with the consequences.” Following this, a heated exchange ensued, where Embiid allegedly swore at and shoved Hayes, prompting a public relations officer to intervene and escort the media out of the locker room.
Embiid’s three-game suspension will cover the 76ers’ upcoming Los Angeles road trip against the Clippers and Lakers, as well as their home game against the Charlotte Hornets. The All-Star center is expected to return to action next Tuesday against the New York Knicks in the NBA Cup.