Embiid Claims to be the NBA's Most Hated Player
Philadelphia 76ers center Joel Embiid has stated that he receives more online hate than any other NBA player. During an appearance on "The Check Ball Show" with Drew Hanlen, Embiid said, "I'm probably the most hated guy in the league. I don't know why ... I'm just cool. I don't know what's there to hate about me."
At 30 years old, Embiid had a standout statistical season, averaging a career-best 34.7 points, 5.6 assists, and 11 rebounds per game. This performance marked his third consecutive season with an average of at least 30 points per game. However, injuries again affected his season. The 7-foot player participated in only 39 games and underwent surgery to address cartilage issues in his knee. This was his second arthroscopic surgery on his left meniscus, which led to him not qualifying for the league's scoring title due to missing the NBA's 65-game threshold.
Embiid acknowledged that he sees negative comments and criticism on social media, which he uses as motivation to improve his game. "I pay attention to it because I like it. Because that's the motivation that I need. When you get to a certain level when you've accomplished a lot ... you need something else to keep motivating you, and that's one of the things," he stated.
In the playoffs, the Philadelphia 76ers were defeated by the New York Knicks in the first round. Embiid averaged 33 points, 10.8 rebounds, and 5.7 assists per game in the six-game series.
Looking ahead, Embiid will represent Team USA at the Paris Olympics, having chosen to play for the United States over Cameroon or France.
