Joel Embiid’s career in the NBA has been one of euphoric achievements and tragic setbacks. Since childhood, he challenged the unpredictability that loomed over him and his crew. He soared up through the ranks to become a beacon of hope, frequently taking on the role of a Redeemer. Considering that Embiid just turned 20 years old, the story is downright astounding. To accomplish that, he developed from a junior varsity player at Montverde Academy to an NBA MVP. Hard work and perseverance carried him through.
Embiid’s early career was fraught with challenges. He spent just over two years on his craft since making the leap from Montverde’s JV squad to La Lumiere. And while at Montverde, he flashed his amazing physical tools in a jaw-dropping moment. He intercepted an outlet pass under the basket and jumped so high on his shot attempt that he cleared the backboard and landed out-of-bounds. This moment foretold the greatness he was capable of becoming.
As he made the move to college basketball at Kansas, Embiid ran into a second obstacle— communication. At times, he put on an act that what was going on around him was not clear due to his lack of English proficiency. This strategy allowed him to better traverse the multifaceted complexities that life as an international player in a new environment can come with. By 2022, he humbly joined the ranks of citizens of both France and the United States, ensuring his status.
Despite his burgeoning talent, injuries racked Embiid early on in his career. He was sidelined for the equivalent of almost five full seasons from 16 to 29 years old with a long list of injuries. He underwent meniscus surgery on his left knee. This injury limitation made him miss two months since a game against Golden State. This pattern of repeated setbacks only stoked his fire and determination to emerge on top.
In April, Embiid had surgery once more, adding a new chapter to his long rehabilitation odyssey. A week later, this was driven home for him by a visitor that showed him the web of support that would be with him as he faced these challenges. His resilience would prove to be an important trait as he got ready for the next season, even as he endured much more criticism on the path. Responding to naysayers, he declared, “I’ve done way too much for this city, putting myself at risk.”
In the 2022-2023 season, Embiid’s ferocity brought him the fruits of his labors when he won his first MVP award. To her, this victory represented more than just individual success—it was the result of years of advocacy and commitment. It wasn’t an easy road by any means. In November, he argued the cause to the front office in the midst of a locker room player fight and participated in a closed door meeting that included the Philadelphia Sixers to address the team’s tumultuous 2-11 beginning.
Despite these adversities, Embiid somehow kept a curtain of normality drawn on the home front. A glimpse into his apartment revealed a mess of $20 bills spread across a table, symbolizing both his success and the struggles he faced during his career.
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