Joel Embiid was visibly upset and shouted at, then pushed a Philadelphia newspaper columnist in the locker room after the 76ers lost to the Memphis Grizzlies on Saturday night.
The NBA announced it has started an investigation into the incident.
Embiid was upset with Marcus Hayes, a columnist for the Philadelphia Inquirer, who had written about Embiid’s late brother and his son—both named Arthur—while questioning Embiid’s professionalism and fitness after he played in the Paris Olympics. Embiid has not played for the 76ers yet this season.
As reporters entered the locker room, Embiid confronted Hayes directly.
“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,” Embiid told Hayes.
Embiid continued with several instances of profanity. Hayes tried to apologize, but Embiid rejected it, saying, “That’s not the f——— first time.” Later, Embiid stated that he doesn’t care what reporters say, to which Hayes replied, “But you do.”
Embiid seemed to get louder at that moment, and soon after, he pushed Hayes on the shoulder while the team’s public relations head stepped in between them.
Another PR staff member moved Tyrese Maxey’s interview to the hallway outside the locker room to help clear the area of reporters.
At the same time, a security person for the team asked the media not to report on the incident. Embiid shouted over the security guard.
“They can do whatever they want,” Embiid said. “I don’t give a s—-.”
Earlier, Embiid had called out Hayes during a press conference after practice on Friday at the team’s training center. He referred to him as “Marcus, whatever his name is” and questioned those who criticized his extended absence.
Hayes had recently written an article claiming that Embiid disrespects the 76ers and the game itself, suggesting the team should consider offering refunds to fans when Embiid doesn’t play.
“I’ve done way too much for this … city to be treated like this, done way too … much,” Embiid said on Friday. “I wish I was as lucky as other ones, but that doesn’t mean that I’m not trying and I’m not doing whatever it takes to be out there, which I’m gonna be here pretty soon.”
Hayes was not present at practice on Friday. It is still unclear when Embiid will play, and the NBA’s investigation will decide if any disciplinary action is needed.
