Early life
Joel Embiid, born on March 16, 1994, in Yaoundé, Cameroon, has emerged as one of the most dominant and versatile players in the NBA. His playing career is marked by a remarkable journey from Cameroon to becoming a cornerstone for the Philadelphia 76ers. This essay explores the key milestones, challenges, and contributions that define Joel Embiid’s impressive career.
Embiid’s introduction to basketball began relatively late compared to many NBA players. Growing up in Cameroon, he initially focused on soccer before discovering his passion for basketball. His athleticism and height quickly set him apart, catching the attention of talent scouts who recognized his potential. Embiid’s journey from the African continent to the United States became a pivotal chapter in his life.
In 2013, Joel Embiid made the transition to the United States to pursue his basketball dreams, enrolling at the University of Kansas. Despite limited playing time due to injuries, he showcased his exceptional skills, particularly on the defensive end. His shot-blocking ability, footwork, and basketball IQ impressed scouts, making him a highly sought-after prospect for the 2014 NBA Draft.
Unfortunately, his early years in the league were hampered by persistent injuries that kept him off the court for extended periods. These setbacks tested Embiid’s resilience and determination, forcing him to endure a lengthy rehabilitation process.
Injury History
The Philadelphia 76ers selected Joel Embiid as the third overall pick in the 2014 NBA Draft, despite concerns about his injury history. While at Kansas he sustained an injury that lead to him not being able to participate predraft workouts which caused him to drop in the draft. His early years in the league were marred by more injuries that kept him off the court for his first two seasons. Joel took the libery of referring to himself as “The Process” which derived from the GM at the time saying “Trust the process” Sam Hinkie, in order to comfort fans in Philadelphia during that time.
Winning
Joel has not won a championship. For many, he won’t be validated until he wins that trophy. He has had some underwhelming performances in the playoffs due to injury and lackluster play, most recently against the Boston Celtics in the 2023 NBA Playoffs. He also had Ben Simmons seemingly quit on the team after finishing first in the Eastern Conference in 2021. Embiid in my opinion is looking to win and he may need to consider that it may not be possible with the 76ers due to personnel.
Revolution
Embiid has been a breath of fresh air for those who like traditional bigs. Joel’s body style and dominance hint at Shaq in today’s play style. Joel’s footwork mirrors that of Hakeem Olajuwon. Embiid was the first center to lead the NBA in scoring in 30 years. Eventhough he has revolutionized the center position we can’t forget the ones prior who did, such as Kareem Abdul-Jabbar and Moses Malone.
QUICK FACT
Joel Embiid is a two-time scoring champion in the NBA.
Evolution
With pace and space being at the forefront of basketball today, the typical center has become obsolete. Centers today straddle the line of forward, with teams opting for more skilled, mobile rim protectors. Nikola Jokic and Embiid are head and shoulders above the field, primarily because they are two of the best center free-throw shooters of all time. Passing is another reason they top the list.
Embiid’s unique combination of size, skill, and agility made him a force. His ability to lean on his jump shot and not have to play with his back to basket make him different from the centers of yesteryear. His ability to make his free throws at an 80% clip keep him on the floor late in games. Naysayers believe that he carries the soft gene but the reality is that he shoots an average of 11 free throws per game which typically indicates toughness and aggression on the offensive side of the ball.
Nikola Jokic and Embiid are head and shoulders above the field, primarily because they are two of the best center free-throw shooters of all time.
The Future
In the history of the NBA, we don’t have MVP’s at the center position that has not won championships. I don’t believe Joel will be any different. He carries the same competitive genome as the greats that came before him. A seventy-point game on Wemby and a forty-point game on Jokic are indicators that he wants to set himself apart from the pack.
