Joel Embiid, the NBA’s reigning Most Valuable Player from Cameroonian has not only left an indelible mark on the NBA court but has also carved a unique path in his life. Born on March 16, 1994, in Yaoundé, Cameroon, Joel began his basketball journey in his homeland. He showcased immense talent that would eventually propel him to the pinnacle of the sport. Let’s have a look at Joel Embiid’s basketball journey.
Joel Embiid’s basketball journey to the NBA All-Star Game
Joel Embiid’s college career
Teaming up with Andrew Wiggins at the University of Kansas, Embiid’s standout performance in the 2013–14 season earned him a spot among the 30 finalists for the Naismith College Player of the Year. Averaging 11.2 points, 8.1 rebounds, 1.4 assists, and 2.6 blocks in 23.1 minutes per game, he received recognition as the Big 12 Defensive Player of the Year and secured a second-team All-Big 12 spot. Unfortunately, a stress fracture in his back in March 2014 side-lined him for both the Big 12 and NCAA tournaments, with Kansas bowing out in the NCAA tournament’s second round (round of 32).
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Professional career
- NBA Draft Declaration (April 9, 2014): Embiid boldly declares for the 2014 NBA draft, skipping his final three college years.
- Swift Ascent (June 20, 2014): Despite undergoing foot surgery, Embiid is chosen as the third overall pick by the Philadelphia 76ers just six days later, becoming the franchise’s third Cameroonian-born player and the highest-selected player from Cameroon.
- Regular Season Arrival (October 26, 2016): Building on preseason momentum, Embiid makes his highly anticipated NBA regular-season debut during the 76ers’ opener against the Oklahoma City Thunder.
- Record-Breaking Performance (October 24, 2018): Embiid delivers a standout performance with 30 points and 19 rebounds, achieving a feat not seen since Charles Barkley in November 1991, despite a 123–108 loss to the Milwaukee Bucks.
- Suspension (October 31, 2019): Embiid faces a two-game suspension without pay due to an altercation with Karl-Anthony Towns during a game against the Minnesota Timberwolves.
- Career High (February 20, 2021): Embiid records a double-double with a then-career high of 50 points and 17 rebounds, leading the 76ers to a 112–105 victory against the Chicago Bulls. Finishes the regular season with career highs in points, rebounds, and assists, guiding the Sixers to the best record in the Eastern Conference.
- Contract Extension (August 17, 2021): Embiid signs a four-year, $196 million extension with the 76ers, solidifying his commitment to the team.
- COVID-19 Absence and Spectacular Return (2021-2022): Despite missing nine games due to testing positive for COVID-19, Embiid returns with a bang, scoring 42 points and recording 14 rebounds in a 121–120 double overtime loss against the Minnesota Timberwolves.
- Historic Performance (November 13, 2022): Embiid scores a career-high 59 points, along with 11 rebounds, eight assists, and seven blocks. He made NBA history by becoming the first player with 50 points, 10 boards, five assists, and five blocks in a game.
Joel Embiid’s family and relationship
Embiid’s family suffered a tragic loss, as his younger brother, Arthur, died in a car crash in their native Cameroon. Despite this profound sorrow, Embiid, alongside a younger sister, demonstrates remarkable resilience in navigating life. In 2018, love entered his life with a relationship blossoming between him and Brazilian model Anne de Paula. This connection deepened, resulting in the arrival of their son named Arthur, a touching tribute to his late brother. Their commitment culminated in marriage in 2023.
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Net worth
Joel Embiid’s estimated net worth is approximately $35 million, as reported by various sources. For the 2022-23 season, he earned around $34 million playing for the Philadelphia 76ers. Over his nine-year NBA career, the Cameroonian has accumulated over $166 million in salary earnings. In addition to his NBA income, Embiid significantly boosts his earnings through endorsement deals and smart investments. Joel Embiid’s basketball journey is truly inspiring.