Joel Embiid broke down in tears while holding his son on the court on Friday. (AP Photo/Matt Slocum)
Philadelphia 76ers big man Joel Embiid has shown plenty of resilience throughout his career. After missing his first two seasons due to foot injuries, Embiid dealt with people calling him a broke and a wasted draft pick.
Embiid returned for the 2016/17 season and although his playing time was limited he showed glimpses of fame. Finally healthy for 2017-18, Embiid progressed to an All-Star and has made it to the event every year since.
This season, however, Embiid has taken his game to new heights. After leading the league with 33.1 points per game and taking the 76ers to a 54-28 record, Embiid received his first career MVP award.
Presented with the award before the 76ers took on the Boston Celtics in Game 3 on Friday, Embiid made it clear just how much the moment meant to him. During his speech to the home crowd, Embiid mentioned his son standing nearby watching his father address the crowd. As Embiid’s son ran into the square to hug his father, Embiid couldn’t help but burst into tears.
It was a moving moment and one that underscores just how much Embiid loves and cares about his craft. Embiid overcame a lot to reach this moment and even play in Friday’s game. There was no guarantee Embiid would play Boston in the series after suffering a knee injury in the first round of the playoffs.
But Embiid persevered and made himself available against Boston. Considering Embiid went through everything early in his career, emotions were probably running high during the MVP presentation. And considering how much Embiid had to overcome to reach this moment, it’s no surprise that he shed a few tears as he held his son in his arms.