Sixers' Joel Embiid Discusses Missed Game, Upcoming Back-to-Back

The star center opens up about his recent illness, frustration with the team's decision-making, and his desire to play through injury.

Apr. 4, 2026 at 3:19am

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting the dynamic movements of a basketball player, with sharp, overlapping planes of vibrant red, blue, and white colors representing the Philadelphia 76ers' team palette.Embiid's competitive drive clashes with the Sixers' cautious approach as the team navigates the star center's health and availability.Philadelphia Today

Philadelphia 76ers star Joel Embiid missed Wednesday's game against the Washington Wizards due to an illness, which he revealed he was still recovering from after the previous loss to the Miami Heat. Embiid expressed frustration with the team's decision to rule him out, saying he felt well enough to play and just wanted to be on the court. With the Sixers hosting the Detroit Pistons on the second night of a back-to-back on Saturday, Embiid is hopeful the team will allow him to play despite his ongoing right oblique injury.

Why it matters

Embiid's health and availability are critical to the Sixers' playoff push, as the team sits in the sixth spot in the Eastern Conference. His willingness to play through illness and injury showcases his competitive drive, but the team's cautious approach has led to some tension. This dynamic highlights the delicate balance teams must strike between player autonomy and medical oversight.

The details

After missing the Wizards game, Embiid returned to action on Friday, scoring 19 points with 13 rebounds and 7 assists in a win over the Timberwolves. He explained that he was 'pissed off' about being ruled out against Washington, as he felt well enough to play. Embiid said he wasn't able to attend the team's morning shootaround due to his illness, which is when the decision was made to sit him. The star center also acknowledged that his right oblique injury is still bothering him, but he's trying not to think about it as he continues to play.

  • Embiid missed the Sixers' game against the Wizards on Wednesday, April 3, 2026.
  • Embiid returned to action on Friday, April 5, 2026, helping the Sixers defeat the Timberwolves.
  • The Sixers will host the Pistons on the second night of a back-to-back on Saturday, April 6, 2026.

The players

Joel Embiid

The star center for the Philadelphia 76ers, known for his dominant play and competitive spirit.

Daryl Morey

The president of basketball operations for the Philadelphia 76ers, responsible for the team's roster decisions.

Nick Nurse

The head coach of the Philadelphia 76ers, who revealed Embiid's absence from the team's film session prior to the Wizards game.

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What they’re saying

“I was pissed off. I wanted to play basketball. I wasn't allowed to play basketball. So, I think this is more of a question on Daryl Morey and whoever makes the decisions.”

— Joel Embiid, Philadelphia 76ers Center

“There's a chance. I don't know. I guess these guys decide to let me play or not. So, whatever they tell me, I guess, I gotta follow.”

— Joel Embiid, Philadelphia 76ers Center

What’s next

The Sixers and Embiid will have to continue navigating the balance between his desire to play and the team's medical oversight as they approach the playoffs. The decision on whether Embiid will suit up for the back-to-back against the Pisers on Saturday will be closely watched.

The takeaway

Embiid's competitive spirit and willingness to play through illness and injury is admirable, but the Sixers must carefully manage his health to ensure he is available for the postseason. This dynamic highlights the challenges teams face in balancing player autonomy and medical best practices.