76ers star Joel Embiid says victory is secondary for Ben Simmons
Get your popcorn, guys, as the years-smoldering rivalry of Joel Embiid and Ben Simmons could become TV not to be missed.
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For years, it was reported that the two never really got along, but both players have made public efforts to show a united front. Now, after Simmons spoke to Brooklyn, Embiid hasn’t been so subtle when it comes to digging into his former teammate.
The first is a … engaging (but hilarious) social media posts after notice on trade. The Sixers hub’s explanation for that tweet?
“I saw the picture on the internet and thought he was well dressed.” he say.
However, on Friday night, Embiid made the first public statement about the duo’s disbandment. He assumed victory was secondary to Simmons, who wanted his own team.
THAN: Commercial Class Simmons-Harden
“It’s unfortunate that winning isn’t the biggest factor,” said Embiid. “It’s unfortunate to have his own team and, I guess, being a star comes first to him.
“The fit is great but unfortunately [Ben] think it’s not. ”
“It’s unfortunate that winning isn’t the biggest factor”
Embiid playing with Ben Simmons
(through the @TomMoorePhilly)pic.twitter.com/oJXTrkbi6b
– Bleacher Report (@BleacherReport) February 12, 2022
The Simmons saga has become a key storyline for the 76ers this season when the Australian refused to play after he asked to be swapped out of Philadelphia following criticism he received from the playoff loss. of the team against the Atlanta Hawks last season.
After the series, head coach Doc Rivers said “I don’t know the answer to that question right now” when asked if a team could win a championship with Simmons as their point guard.
Embiid also mentioned to the media that the “turning point” in the Game 7 loss was that Simmons didn’t jump at the end of the fourth round when he had the chance.
The 76ers did quite well in the trade, getting James Harden back from the Nets, and Embiid called Harden the best player he’s had the chance to play with so far in his career.
THAN: How does Harden fit into Embiid?
Embiid says he and Harden have been chatting and both guys are excited to get started. Says he’s the best player he’s had the chance to play with so far in his career
– Kyle Neubeck (@KyleNeubeck) February 12, 2022
Embiid concluded his communication skills by saying he went ahead and wished everyone the best.
“I’m glad I won’t be answering any more questions on that topic,” he said.
He said he could have moved on but we have a feeling this story will get more play out.