Remember the buzz around the 2014 NBA Draft? While Andrew Wiggins and Jabari Parker dominated the top spots, a towering, enigmatic big man from Kansas captured the imagination of the Philadelphia 76ers. Joel Embiid, a raw but supremely talented center, was selected third overall by the Sixers, signaling a new era for the franchise. Hopes were sky-high, but almost immediately, fans learned of a devastating setback: Embiid would miss his entire rookie season due to a foot injury, specifically a navicular bone fracture. This was just the beginning of a challenging wait for the City of Brotherly Love.
The Torturous Wait and "The Process"
What followed was an unprecedented period of anticipation. Embiid's initial injury required surgery, sidelining him for the 2014-15 season. Then, a re-evaluation of the same foot injury led to another surgery, forcing him to miss the entire 2015-16 season as well. Two full seasons, two years spent rehabbing, all while the Sixers’ "Process" of rebuilding through high draft picks and strategic losses continued. During this time, Embiid became almost legendary without playing a single game, his social media presence and workout snippets fueling the hype train to incredible levels. Fans bought into the idea that when he finally stepped onto the court, it would be worth the wait.
And worth it, it largely was. Embiid finally made his highly anticipated NBA debut on October 26, 2016, kicking off the 2016-17 season. Despite being on strict minute restrictions and missing games due to further injury management (he played just 31 games that season), his impact was immediate and undeniable. He showcased an unbelievable offensive repertoire for a player of his size – dominant post moves, a smooth jump shot extending to three-point range, and impressive defensive instincts. Averaging 20.2 points, 7.8 rebounds, and 2.5 blocks in just 25.4 minutes per game, Embiid quickly proved why the Sixers endured years of losing and waiting, solidifying himself as a future cornerstone and arguably the face of "The Process."