Joel Embiid is one of the most dominant big men in the NBA, a player who can take over games with his scoring, defense, and sheer presence on the court. But his career has been shadowed by injuries, starting before he even stepped onto an NBA floor. As Embiid enters 2025, questions about his durability and longevity continue to linger. This article dives into his Joel Embiid injury history, exploring how it has shaped his career and the future of the Philadelphia 76ers’ franchise player.
From His First Injury to His Current Challenges
Joel Embiid’s journey into the NBA began with a significant setback. After being selected third overall in the 2014 NBA Draft by the Philadelphia 76ers, Embiid was sidelined for two full seasons due to a fractured navicular bone in his right foot. This injury was a major red flag for scouts, as foot injuries are particularly concerning for big men.
The road to recovery was long, but Embiid’s perseverance paid off. He finally made his debut in the 2016-17 season, showcasing the skills that made him a top prospect. However, injuries have continued to plague him throughout his career, including knee and back issues, concussions, and notable playoff injuries. His Joel Embiid injury history is a testament to both the challenges he has faced and his ability to overcome them.
Joel Embiid Injury Timeline
- Injury: Broken navicular bone in his right foot, suffered before the draft.
- Impact: Missed his first two NBA seasons.
- Recovery: Required multiple surgeries and extensive rehabilitation.
2017: Meniscus Tear
- Injury: Left knee meniscus tear.
- Impact: Missed the latter part of his rookie season, limiting him to 31 games.
- Recovery: Underwent arthroscopic surgery.
2018: Orbital Bone Fracture
- Injury: Fractured left orbital bone after colliding with Markelle Fultz during a game.
- Impact: Missed the final eight games of the regular season and the start of the playoffs.
- Recovery: Played in the playoffs wearing a protective mask.
2019–2020: Knee and Shoulder Injuries
- Injury: Multiple knee sprains and a left shoulder sprain.
- Impact: Missed significant time during the regular season and was limited in the playoffs.
- Recovery: Rehabilitation helped manage these recurring issues.
2021: Torn Meniscus
- Injury: Partially torn meniscus in his right knee during the playoffs.
- Impact: Played through the injury in the 2021 postseason, but the 76ers were eliminated in the second round.
- Recovery: Opted for non-surgical treatment in the offseason.
2022–2023: Multiple Issues
- Injuries: Continued knee problems and a sprained thumb in the 2022 playoffs.
- Impact: Played through pain but was visibly hampered in key games.
- Recovery: Managed injuries with rest and treatment during the offseason.
Notable Playoff Injuries
Joel Embiid’s playoff history is riddled with injuries that have often limited his performance when the stakes were highest. His torn meniscus in 2021 and sprained thumb in 2022 were particularly detrimental, as both injuries came during crucial postseason runs. Despite these challenges, his Joel Embiid injury history is also a story of resilience. He has repeatedly played through pain to give his team a fighting chance, solidifying his reputation as a warrior on the court.
Joel Embiid’s Current Salary and Endorsements
Joel Embiid’s impact on the court translates into significant earnings.
- Current Salary: Embiid signed a four-year, $196 million supermax extension in 2021, which keeps him under contract with the 76ers through the 2026-27 season. His annual salary exceeds $43 million, making him one of the highest-paid players in the NBA.
- Endorsements:
- Under Armour: Embiid has a lucrative endorsement deal with Under Armour, which includes his signature shoe line, the Embiid One.
- Other Brands: Embiid also partners with Mountain Dew, Amazon, and Crypto.com, adding millions to his annual earnings.
With his on-court dominance and off-court charisma, Embiid’s marketability continues to soar, despite his well-documented Joel Embiid injury history.
Joel Embiid’s Rivalries and On-Court Drama
Joel Embiid’s career has been as much about his dominating presence on the court as it has been about his memorable rivalries and intense showdowns. From high-profile feuds with teammates to battles with opponents, Embiid’s ability to mix competitiveness with entertainment has made him one of the most talked-about players in the NBA.
The Ben Simmons Saga
The fallout between Joel Embiid and former teammate Ben Simmons became one of the defining storylines of the 2021-2022 NBA season. Simmons, who refused to play for the Philadelphia 76ers following a disappointing playoff performance, became a lightning rod for criticism. Embiid didn’t hold back when asked about the situation, famously calling Simmons’ actions “borderline disrespectful” to the team.
- The Turning Point: The tension peaked when Simmons was traded to the Brooklyn Nets for James Harden in February 2022. While the trade marked the end of their time as teammates, the bitterness between the two players remained palpable.
- Legacy of the Feud: Embiid has since described the Simmons situation as a learning experience, emphasizing the importance of team chemistry. The feud, however, cemented Embiid’s reputation as a leader unafraid to speak his mind.
Trash Talk Extraordinaire
Embiid’s rivalry with Ben Simmons isn’t the only drama that has defined his career. Known for his playful yet fiery trash talk, Embiid has engaged in heated exchanges with numerous players:
- Karl-Anthony Towns: Their feud erupted in 2019 when the two got into a physical altercation during a game. The spat spilled onto social media, with both players exchanging insults and memes.
- Andre Drummond: Embiid has taken every opportunity to needle Drummond, calling him “a good player” but emphasizing his dominance over him on the court.
- Marcus Smart: Embiid’s clashes with Smart have often highlighted his ability to frustrate opponents while maintaining his composure.
Embiid’s antics are rarely malicious, but they always add a layer of intrigue to matchups, making his games must-watch events.
Career Achievements
Joel Embiid’s accolades underscore his ability to thrive despite challenges:
- 2023 NBA MVP: A career-defining moment, Embiid led the league in scoring with 33.1 points per game while anchoring the 76ers’ defense.
- Multiple All-Star Selections: Embiid has been a perennial All-Star since his debut season, highlighting his consistent excellence.
- All-NBA Honors: He has earned multiple first- and second-team All-NBA nods, proving he belongs in the conversation with the league’s best.
- Scoring Titles: Back-to-back scoring titles in 2022 and 2023 showcase his offensive dominance.
- Defensive Force: Embiid’s shot-blocking and rebounding skills make him one of the league’s top two-way players.
These accomplishments solidify Embiid’s legacy as one of the premier big men of his generation, even as his Joel Embiid injury history posed significant obstacles.
Family and Home Life
Off the court, Joel Embiid’s life paints a picture of balance and fulfillment. Married to model Anne de Paula, the two share a son, Arthur, born in 2020.
- A Proud Father: Embiid frequently shares glimpses of his time with Arthur on social media, highlighting his softer side. From family vacations to playful moments at home, Embiid’s fatherhood is a cornerstone of his personal life.
- Grounded and Grateful: Despite his fame and wealth, Embiid remains grounded, often expressing gratitude for his family’s support throughout his career.
- Anne de Paula’s Support: Anne has been a visible presence at Embiid’s games and a vocal supporter of his career, solidifying their role as a power couple in sports and modeling.
Joel Embiid’s Origins and Basketball Beginnings
Joel Embiid’s basketball journey is as remarkable as his rise to stardom. Born in Yaoundé, Cameroon, Embiid didn’t pick up a basketball until he was 15 years old.
- Volleyball to Basketball: Initially a volleyball player, Embiid was inspired to switch sports after watching highlights of NBA legend Hakeem Olajuwon. His background in volleyball contributed to his agility and coordination, traits that later became key to his success.
- The Move to the U.S.: In 2011, Embiid moved to the United States to pursue basketball seriously. He attended Montverde Academy and later The Rock School, where he honed his skills and caught the attention of college scouts.
- Kansas Days: At the University of Kansas, Embiid quickly became a standout, showcasing his defensive instincts and offensive potential. Despite an injury that cut his college career short, his performance was enough to make him a top prospect in the 2014 NBA Draft.
Embiid’s late start in basketball makes his dominance all the more impressive. His raw talent, combined with an unrelenting work ethic, transformed him into one of the NBA’s most formidable players, despite his Joel Embiid injury history.
Giving Back to Communities
Joel Embiid has remained committed to giving back to both Philadelphia and his home country of Cameroon.
- In Philadelphia: Embiid has supported local charities, donated meals during the COVID-19 pandemic, and funded medical programs.
- In Africa: Embiid runs basketball camps in Cameroon, providing opportunities for young athletes to develop their skills and dream big.
His philanthropic efforts reflect his dedication to making a difference beyond basketball.
How Many Years Does Embiid Have Left?
At 31 years old, Embiid’s future in the NBA depends on his ability to manage his health. Big men with significant injury histories typically have shorter careers, but advances in sports medicine and Embiid’s dedication to fitness could extend his playing days. Realistically, Embiid may have 4–6 more years of high-level play, assuming he avoids major setbacks. His Joel Embiid injury history will undoubtedly influence how long he can continue at an elite level.
Will Joel Embiid Retire as a 76er?
Embiid has repeatedly expressed his love for Philadelphia, calling it his second home. However, the business of basketball can be unpredictable. If the 76ers fail to win a championship in the coming years, there could be pressure for Embiid to move on. That said, his loyalty to the franchise and the city makes it likely that he will retire as a 76er, barring unforeseen circumstances.
Joel Embiid’s journey has been a testament to perseverance, talent, and determination. Despite a career marked by injuries, he has risen to become one of the NBA’s most dominant and beloved players. As he heads into 2025, the question remains: can Embiid lead the 76ers to championship glory while managing his health? One thing is certain—his legacy as one of the greatest big men of his era is already secure. His Joel Embiid injury history may define his challenges, but it is his resilience that defines his greatness.
