When a sports team holds a players-only team meeting, it’s supposed to be a sacred thing. What’s said in those meetings is supposed to stay in those meetings, but that isn’t always the case.
Philadelphia 76ers big man Joel Embiid found that out the hard way last season, when details leaked about Tyrese Maxey confronting Embiid over his tardiness. Embiid was furious about those details going public last season, calling whoever leaked the story a “real piece of s***.”
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Because of that, Embiid said he won’t take part in closed-door team meetings anymore. Embiid said trust was broken after last year’s incident, according to ESPN.
“That goes back to the trust thing. Once you cross that — you can’t expect me to be part of a team meeting again. That’s just not going to happen.”
Embiid also claims he knows who leaked the details of last year’s meeting — which was held after the 76ers got off to a 2-11 start to the season. Embiid wouldn’t reveal who he believes leaked the story, but implied that person could still be on the 76ers.
The team never recovered from that slow start, finishing the year 24-58. It was one of the most disappointing performances in the league last season. Embiid didn’t get to experience much of it. He played in just 19 games due to a knee injury.
Bigger things are expected from the team next season, especially with Embiid expected to be ready for training camp. But his comments about no longer participating in team meetings isn’t the most encouraging sign for a 76ers team that appeared to be in disarray last year.
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It also doesn’t help that the team is already battling one significant injury after all of its stars missed time due to ailments last season. Forward Paul George underwent knee surgery Monday after injuring himself during offseason workouts. He’ll be re-evaluated before training camp.
If the 76ers can put all those issues behind them, the team could once again emerge as a legitimate championship contender. But Embiid’s comments suggest the team’s issues won’t fully be solved by its on-the-court success next season, especially if the player who leaked the details of last year’s meeting is still on the roster.
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