Becoming a superstar in the NBA is no easy feat. The top 20 players in the league today have all undergone years of relentless training, dedication, and hard work to reach their current level of skill and influence on the court. Each one has developed unique traits or abilities that allow them to stand out and change the flow of a game in an instant.
For LeBron James, it’s his powerful, highlight-reel dunks that can energize his team and the crowd. For Stephen Curry, it’s his jaw-dropping three-point shooting that can shift the momentum of a game in mere seconds.
Every superstar has a defining skill, and for Philadelphia 76ers’ star Joel Embiid, his signature move is his uncanny ability to get to the free-throw line. Though it may not be as flashy as a dunk or a long-range shot, Embiid’s proficiency in drawing fouls and earning free throws is an elite skill that has become invaluable in the modern NBA.
However, there is a fine line between mastering the art of drawing contact and overselling it. Players like Embiid often flirt with this line, occasionally exaggerating or “flopping” in hopes of drawing a foul call from the referees, even when there is minimal or no contact from the opposing team. It can be a frustrating tactic for fans and opponents alike, but it’s part of the game as players look for any advantage to put points on the board.
During a recent game against the Memphis Grizzlies, Embiid seemingly took his flopping antics to a whole new level, resulting in a moment that quickly went viral.
In a clip circulating on social media, Embiid is seen shooting a free throw during the game. This means that the 76ers’ star had either been legitimately fouled or managed to sell enough contact to convince the referees to send him to the charity stripe.
What happened next, though, was unexpected and left many fans scratching their heads. After releasing his free throw, Embiid appeared to flop dramatically, falling backward with no apparent contact from anyone.
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It was a surprising move from the reigning 2023 NBA MVP, who is known for his playful antics both on and off the court. While Embiid has always embraced his role as an entertainer and occasionally a troll, this particular moment seemed to cross the line of what even his fans find acceptable.
The Philadelphia 76ers, who have been struggling this season, are currently sitting at the bottom of the Eastern Conference standings with a dismal 2-12 record. With the team facing significant challenges on the court, Embiid’s over-the-top theatrics may not be the best look as they try to turn their season around. Instead, focusing on effective leadership and consistent performance may be what the Sixers need most right now.
Despite the backlash, there’s no denying Embiid’s skill in drawing fouls is impressive. Getting to the free-throw line consistently requires a combination of physicality, timing, and basketball IQ.
Embiid has perfected this craft, often frustrating defenders who struggle to guard him without fouling. His ability to create contact and get easy points from the line has been a crucial part of his game and a major reason for his success in the league.
However, moments like this recent flop risk undermining that success. Embiid’s antics may entertain some fans, but they also fuel critics who argue that flopping has no place in the game.
As one of the league’s most dominant big men, Embiid has the talent to dominate without resorting to theatrics, and it’s moments like these that remind everyone—including Embiid himself—that there is a balance to be struck between showmanship and sportsmanship.
As the Sixers look to climb out of their early-season slump, it will be important for Embiid to focus on leading by example, both with his play and his attitude on the court.
Philadelphia’s success hinges on his ability to dominate in the paint, make smart plays, and inspire his teammates.
The Sixers need their MVP to be at his best, and that means using his skills to win games—not just to win over the referees.
