## 76ers Star Joel Embiid Pushes Reporter After Heated Exchange
**Philadelphia, PA** — 76ers superstar Joel Embiid allegedly shoved a Philadelphia columnist after a heated exchange following the Sixers’ 124-107 loss to the Memphis Grizzlies on Saturday.
ESPN’s Shams Charania reported that the altercation took place with a sports columnist after the game which resulted in Embiid shoving the reporter. The incident comes after Embiid publicly criticized a recent column written by Marcus Hayes, who mentioned Embiid’s son and late brother.
On Friday, Embiid addressed his critics, particularly Hayes, who questioned his motivation after he began the season out with a knee injury. Embiid defended his commitment to the team and expressed his frustration with how his absence was perceived.
Witnesses provided details about the confrontation, recounting that Embiid angrily confronted Hayes, stating “Don’t ever put my dead brother’s name in your mouth. Don’t talk about my family.” They added that Embiid argued that mentioning his family was unacceptable while criticizing his basketball performance was fine.
Despite an apology reportedly offered by Hayes, tensions escalated, ultimately leading to Embiid shoving the reporter. Security intervened to separate the two parties. The NBA is currently investigating the incident.
Embiid has been recovering from a knee injury and has missed the first five games of the season. He also played a key role in Team USA’s gold medal victory at the Paris Olympics this summer. His health remains a priority for the 76ers, with team president Daryl Morey stating that they will be “smart” about managing his workload this season.
