Embiid named 2022-23 NBA Most Valuable Player

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Joel Embiid is a special player who has had a memorable season, and that memorable season was recognized.

On Tuesday, the NBA announced today that Embiid has been named the 2022-23 NBA Most Valuable Player.

Two-time reigning MVP Nikola Jokic finished second. 

The six-time All-Star is the first 76er to capture league MVP honors since Allen Iverson did it in 2001, and the Cameroon native is the seventh international player to be named MVP. 

Currently, Embiid, who led the 76ers to a 54-28 regular season, the team’s best since 2000-01, is sidelined with a knee injury, but Philly was able to defeat the Celtics in Boston 119-115 in Game 1 of their Eastern Conference second-round series on Monday night.

This season, the 29-year-old led the NBA in scoring for the second consecutive season, averaging 33.1 points and adding 10.2 rebounds per contest; he is the first NBA player to win consecutive scoring titles since teammate James Harden (three straight, 2017-20), and the third player in NBA history to average at least 33 points and 10.2 rebounds on 54% shooting from the floor.

Defensively, the six-year veteran posted 1.7 blocks (seventh in the NBA) and 1.0 steals per outing. He and 2022-23 NBA Defensive Player of the Year Jaren Jackson Jr. were the only two players in the league this season to average at least 1.5 blocks and 1.0 steals.  

76ers Managing Partner Josh Harris:

“I’ve watched Joel grow and evolve into one of the greatest players in 76ers franchise history over the last nine years. Today is a proud day for our organization as Joel becomes the fifth Sixer ever to capture League MVP honors. Joel overcame adversity at the start of his career with a combination of perseverance and grit, and now, his intense work ethic has pushed him into the NBA history books. It’s been a joy to watch him dedicate himself to the team and the city of Philadelphia. Congratulations to Joel, our fans, and our city on an honor we will always remember.”

76ers head coach Doc Rivers:

“Let me start by saying I am absolutely thrilled for Joel on winning the MVP award. He is the real deal and deserves every bit of recognition that comes his way. He embodies everything that the honor stands for. His drive to improve is unmatched, and like the saying ‘a dream doesn’t become reality through magic, it takes hard work’, he’s put in the work. What’s most impressive is the why. He puts in the work because he wants to be a winner. This MVP award is part of that journey. While this may be an individual award, in many ways it’s also a team award. Joel’s teammates have been unbelievable in contributing to his success. I couldn’t be prouder of all of them. It takes a village. From our staff, our coaches, our players and the entire organization, congratulations to the big fella.”

76ers President of Basketball Operations Daryl Morey:

“I’ve always believed that greatness emerges when talent meets relentless dedication. Joel’s season was legendary, and the MVP award is the latest milestone of his decorated career. His impact on both sides of the ball places him in rarified air among all-time greats such as Hakeem, Kareem and Wilt. It has been a privilege to watch Joel over the last three seasons and I know this won’t be his last accomplishment as we continue to strive toward our ultimate goal of winning an NBA championship.”

Published by pgant

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