76ers, Joel Embiid send mixed messages over whether center is playing vs. Wizards: ‘Must be April Fools joke’
A few hours before his team’s game against the Washington Wizards on Wednesday, Joel Embiid’s playing status is unclear. The Philadelphia 76ers initially announced that Embiid would miss the competition due to illness, but the center posted on social media that his injury designation was meant to be an “April Fool’s joke.”
In his tweet, Embiid mentioned that he played against the Miami Heat on Monday despite experiencing the same symptoms.
The 32-year-old center was productive in that game, scoring 26 points and grabbing seven rebounds in the 119-109 loss.
Advertisement
It’s unclear if Embiid is serious or if he’s pulling his own April Fool’s prank on fans. The 76ers did not participate in a shoot Wednesday, preferring to do a film session at the team hotel, according to the Philadelphia Inquirer. Embiid’s shoes were reportedly laid out on a courtside seat before filming was canceled.
The 76ers big man has been limited to just 36 games this season due to various injuries. On the court, he was productive, averaging 26.9 points and 7.4 rebounds.
This story will be updated.
