Former 76ers star uncovers brutal truth about Joel Embiid's Injury Ordeal - "I have no idea how he could even walk!"
Philadelphia 76ers star Joel Embiid
has long been admired for his dominance on the court, but new information reveals just how much he has endured to stay there. Recently, former teammate Nicolas Batum shed light on the full extent of Embiid's health challenges—offering a sobering account of pain, perseverance, and the physical sacrifices behind the scenes.
The picture that emerges is one of extraordinary endurance in the face of adversity that was largely hidden from public view.
How Joel Embiid's Career Has Been Plagued by Injuries
Injuries have shadowed Joel Embiid's entire career, starting with a stress fracture in college that delayed his NBA debut by two full seasons. Over the years, the list has only grown longer: meniscus tears, bone bruises, shoulder sprains, orbital fractures, tendinitis, and most recently, a battle with Bell's Palsy—a condition that can cause facial paralysis, vision issues, and debilitating migraines.
The 2023–24 season marked a low point. A torn meniscus required surgery in February 2024, yet Embiid rushed back for the playoffs—far from full strength and clearly laboring. He managed just 19 appearances in the 2024–25 season, falling well short of his MVP standard.
Inside the Locker Room: Batum Speaks Out
Joel Embiid of the Philadelphia 76ers (Image via Getty)
The full extent of
Joel Embiid's
physical condition was kept mostly under wraps—until Batum spoke with ESPN's Dotun Akintoye. His firsthand account was striking.
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'I saw his knee before every game, after every game,' Batum revealed. 'I have no idea how he could even walk.' The repeated astonishment in Batum's words emphasized that Embiid's condition wasn't just painful—it was nearly unplayable.
Unseen Pain and Systemic Breakdown
Beyond the knee, Embiid dealt with blurry vision, headaches, and chronic insomnia due to his left eye failing to close at night. His swollen knee required relentless care, and insiders suggest the true scope of his suffering went well beyond public reports.
'It's his knee, it's his eye, it's his whole system,' a Sixers team therapist explained, highlighting how the superstar's body was struggling on multiple fronts.
Despite the severity of his condition, Embiid rarely spoke about it. His silence masked ongoing grief, sleep deprivation, and moments where he considered whether he could continue at all.
Fallout for the Sixers
Embiid's compromised health had immediate consequences. The Sixers finished with just 24 wins in 2024–25—missing the playoffs for the first time in eight years.
Embiid's individual stats (23.8 points and 8.2 rebounds per game) were still impressive by league standards, but far from the dominance fans had come to expect.
Glimmers of Hope
Despite the grim details, there is cautious optimism within
the Sixers
organization. Team president Daryl Morey recently confirmed that Embiid is progressing well in rehab and is expected to be ready for training camp in September 2025. With the return of Tyrese Maxey and the addition of Paul George, Philadelphia hopes to reignite its championship ambitions—if Embiid can stay healthy.
Also read:
Damian Lillard Returns to Portland Trail Blazers on Three-Year, $42 Million Deal Featuring No-Trade Clause
Joel Embiid's journey is now defined not just by stats or accolades, but by the sheer resilience he's shown in the face of relentless adversity. The recent revelations from Batum and others lift the veil on what Embiid has truly endured—offering a deeper appreciation for a player whose fight to compete has been as remarkable as his game itself.
Catch Rani Rampal's inspiring story on Game On, Episode 4. Watch Here!
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