NBA: Embiid’s Explosive Return

Photo Credit: ESPN

PHILADELPHIA—He's back with a vengeance. The 76ers' big man, Joel Embiid, made his debut after eight weeks of recovery from a procedure on the lateral meniscus in his left knee. In the final 30 seconds of Tuesday night's game against Western Conference-leading Oklahoma City Thunder, the sold-out crowd stood in anticipation during the final moments of a one-point game. The crowd rose as Thunder guard Josh Giddey lost control as Embiid snatched the ball. The 7-foot forward drove down the court seconds after the steal, but Thunder center Chet Holmgren met him at the rim, sending Embiid to the foul line. The aggressive collision caused Holmgren to land underneath the rim.

Photo Credit: Yahoo sports

Embiid drilled down both free throws, taking the lead. Thunder tried to answer back with just 13 seconds left on the clock, attempting three 3-pointers, but fell short. Embiid and the 76ers celebrated a 109-105 victory over the Thunder. Embiid finished with 24 points on 6-for-14 shooting in 29 minutes. He missed all three of his 3-point attempts but did go a perfect 12-for-12 from the free-throw line. He retrieved six rebounds and had seven assists. It’s safe to say that Philly's MVP big man was officially back with a vengeance!

Ultimately, the 76ers star told the press his honest take on his return.

I thought I was pretty bad,” Embiid said. “Like I said, usually when I come back from these things, I think I'm usually getting back to myself, 30, 40, whatever it takes to win but this time is a little different. It's going to take me a while to get back to myself and really trust myself.”

Embiid’s statement reveals that the job is not finished; he’s back and ready to improve We’re locked in to see what’s in store for the big man.