Joel Embiid, the Philadelphia 76ers’ star center, has made it clear that his priority is winning an NBA championship, whether it’s with the Sixers or another team. Embiid, who was named the NBA Most Valuable Player for the 2022-23 season, expressed his desire to lift the championship trophy in an interview with Maverick Carter at the UNINTERRUPTED Sports Film Festival.
“I just want to win a championship. Whatever it takes,” said Embiid. “I don’t know where that’s gonna be, whether it’s in Philly or anywhere else, I just want to have a chance to accomplish that. I want to see what it feels like to win that first one, and then you can think about the next one.”
Embiid acknowledged that winning a championship is not an easy task and requires a team effort. He emphasized the importance of having the right people around him to achieve that goal. The talented center, known for his strong work ethic, is committed to putting in the necessary work every day to reach that level of success.
While Embiid’s primary focus is on winning a championship, he also relishes the challenge of proving himself among other elite players in the league. Despite hearing his competitors’ names mentioned in MVP conversations, Embiid sees it as a motivating factor and remains grateful for the blessings he has received.
During his visit to Los Angeles to launch his film studio, Embiid acknowledged that he has little control over who his teammates will be next season. The Sixers have paired Embiid with Ben Simmons and, more recently, James Harden as they aim to compete for a title in the Eastern Conference. However, both Simmons and Harden’s futures with the team remain uncertain. Harden has reportedly expressed his desire to play for the Los Angeles Clippers.
Embiid expressed hope that Harden would reconsider his decision and remain with the 76ers. Despite the uncertainties surrounding his teammates, Embiid remains focused on his own goals and the pursuit of a championship.
The star center signed a lucrative four-year, $213 million contract extension in 2021, securing his future with the team through the 2026-27 season. The contract makes him one of the highest-paid players in the league, with an average annual salary of over $52 million.
As Embiid enters his eighth season with the Philadelphia 76ers, he is driven by the desire to achieve the ultimate prize in basketball. Whether he accomplishes that goal with the Sixers or another team, his dedication, talent, and competitive spirit make him a force to be reckoned with as he continues his quest for an NBA championship.
