The wait is finally over. After eight long months of recovery and speculation, Philadelphia 76ers superstar Joel Embiid made his long-anticipated return to the court during a preseason showdown against the Minnesota Timberwolves — a moment that reignited excitement across the Sixers’ fanbase.
The reigning franchise leader last suited up on February 22, when a knee injury sidelined him in a game against the Brooklyn Nets. Following arthroscopic surgery on his left knee and a lengthy rehabilitation process, Embiid’s comeback signals a major boost for the 76ers as they prepare for the 2025-26 NBA season.
After several weeks of rigorous practice sessions, Embiid showed flashes of his old self in his preseason debut. In 18 minutes and 35 seconds of game time, he recorded 14 points, 7 rebounds, 8 assists, and 3 steals, shooting an impressive 5-for-10 from the field. His performance not only reassured fans but also underscored his growing confidence and fitness ahead of opening night.
“I’m not dwelling on what’s behind me,” Embiid told reporters after the game. “Right now, I’m in a great space mentally and physically. I’m just happy to be back, playing basketball again, and doing what I love most.”
Embiid’s return couldn’t come at a better time. Last season, he appeared in just 19 games, averaging 23.8 points, 8.2 rebounds, and 4.5 assists — solid numbers, yet a far cry from the dominant MVP-caliber form that made him one of Nikola Jokic’s fiercest rivals for the league’s top honor.
Still, Friday’s performance hinted that the Sixers’ leader is finding his rhythm again. If all goes well, he’s expected to be in full force when Philadelphia tips off its regular season opener against the Boston Celtics next week.
As Embiid regains his footing, the 76ers’ championship hopes which had dimmed during his absence are beginning to shine once again.
