Cameroonian- American Born Basketball star, Joel Embiid was ejected during his team’s hard-fought 111-106 victory over the San Antonio Spurs after a heated confrontation with referee Jenna Schroeder.
The incident occurred late in the first half when Embiid who plays for Philadelphia 76ers was called for his third foul after charging Victor Wembanyama, sending the Spurs rookie to the floor with 2:59 remaining. Displeased with the call, Embiid argued with Schroeder and had to be restrained as he tore off his protective face mask. His protests resulted in two technical fouls and an early exit from the game.
Earlier in the game, a controversial decision by Schroeder to eject Philadelphia’s Andre Drummond for two technical fouls following a challenge on Wembanyama was overturned. “It was a wild first half,” said 76ers coach Nick Nurse, reflecting on the chaotic sequence of events.
Despite the drama, Tyrese Maxey stepped up in Embiid’s absence, delivering a stellar performance with 32 points, 10 rebounds, and eight assists to lead the 76ers to victory. Wembanyama also impressed for the Spurs, contributing 26 points, nine rebounds, and an astounding eight blocked shots.
In other NBA action, reigning champions the Boston Celtics squandered a 15-point halftime lead, falling 108-104 to the Orlando Magic. Tristan da Silva led Orlando with 18 points, capitalizing on the absence of Boston’s Jayson Tatum, who missed the game due to illness.
Meanwhile, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander continued his exceptional season, scoring 41 points to propel the Western Conference-leading Oklahoma City Thunder to a commanding 123-105 win over the Washington Wizards.
