Joel Embiid punches and pushes observer during locker room altercation

PHILADELPHIA — Joel Embiid punched and pushed Philadelphia Inquirer columnist Marcus Hayes during a profanity-laced altercation in the 76ers’ locker room following Saturday’s loss to the Memphis Grizzlies.

Embiid, whose open hand made contact with Hayes’ neck and collarbone, was angry about a columnist’s recent work criticizing him for missing the start of the 2024-25 regular season due to a knee condition following surgery last February.

Moving from his locker to Hayes, Embiid shouted his disapproval of Hayes mentioning his late brother and son, both named Arthur, in an Oct. 23 column. Later that day, Hayes removed the references from the column, writing on X (formerly Twitter): “I understand why so many people were upset about this. Sorry. Thanks for all the constructive criticism.” On Saturday, Hayes attempted to apologize to Embiid but was rebuffed before the confrontation got physical.

Embiid told Hayes that he would “take any criticism” from the media about his basketball shortcomings or health, but “no one is coming for my family.” He added that if Hayes writes about these family members again, “you will see what I will do to you, and I will have to (expletive) live with the consequences.” Embiid also accused Hayes of making similar references in previous columns, which Hayes denied.

The incident, which lasted about two minutes, occurred while the locker room was open to reporters and was witnessed by several members of the media, Sixers players and staff members. Reporters waited to meet All-Star point guard Tyrese Maxey in his locker, which is located next to Embiid’s. Sixers staff and teammates intervened to separate Embiid from Hayes as the confrontation escalated, and Embiid left the locker room shortly after it subsided.

Afterward, Hayes said he was escorted to a meeting with Sixers president of basketball operations Daryl Morey and general manager Elton Brand. Hayes said Morey and Brand “apologized for the incident, expressed regret that it happened and asked for my version of events. … They agreed that Embiid’s actions were unacceptable.”

The NBA released the following statement late Saturday: “We are aware of reports of an incident in the Sixers’ locker room this evening and are beginning an investigation.” A Sixers spokesman confirmed Sunday morning that the team is cooperating with the NBA’s investigation.

In a statement, Inquirer editor and senior vice president Gabriel Escobar said: “Marcus is a seasoned and seasoned columnist who offers incisive and illuminating commentary based on his observations. You may not agree with what he says, but physical attack is unjustified and unacceptable. is untenable and we take this matter very seriously.”

He said the Sixers knew Hayes would be at Saturday’s game and were willing to help clear up the conflict between the 2023 NBA MVP and the columnist. The team goes on a three-game road trip on Sunday against the Phoenix Suns, Los Angeles Clippers and Los Angeles Lakers.

Sportswriters usually appear immediately after a critical article about a player, coach or team. Without prior notice, Embiid held his first media session in about four weeks after Friday’s practice and publicly took issue with Hayes’ columns.

“When I see people say, ‘He doesn’t want to play,’” Embiid said. “… like this dude, he’s not here, Marcus, whatever his name is. I’ve done too much for this (expletive) city to be treated like this. Did too (expletive) too much.

“I wish I had the same luck as other players (players who were healthier during their careers). But that doesn’t mean I don’t try and do everything I can to get there and I’ll be there soon.”

Embiid, who signed a three-year, $193 million deal last month, has made seven straight All-Star teams and was named the 2023 MVP. But he has suffered numerous injuries throughout his career, including meniscus surgery last season and a bout with Bell’s palsy during the playoffs. Embiid then competed in the Summer Olympics, helping Team USA win the gold medal, but did not play in any preseason games or participate in five-on-five scrimmages in preparation for the Sixers’ opener on October 23. On October 29, the league fined the Sixers $100,000 for “inconsistent” statements regarding Embiid’s availability.

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