Joel Embiid urges Philadelphia 76ers fans to keep their playoff tickets against the Knicks, recalling a previous series where Knicks fans dominated the Wells Fargo Center. He emphasizes the importance of fan support for the team's success.
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Joel Embiid doesnât want a repeat of the last time the Philadelphia 76ers faced the New York Knicks in the NBA playoffs.
Two seasons ago, the Sixers lost that first-round series in six games. But what Embiid and his teammates remember more than the postseason defeat was their home court becoming unfriendly territory.
Many Knicks fans bought tickets for the three games in Philadelphia to cheer on their team, making the then-Wells Fargo Center feel like another Madison Square Garden. The Sixersâ star center doesnât want that to happen again.
"I just have a message for our fans,â Embiid said after Saturdayâs Game 7 win over the Boston Celtics. âLast time we played the Knicks, it felt like this was Madison Square Garden east. We're going to need the support. Don't sell your tickets. This is bigger than you. We need you.â
Embiid praised the raucous crowd support at Xfinity Mobile Arena providing a big boost for the Sixers during Thursdayâs 106-93 Game 6 win and wants the home fans to continue being âextremely loudâ versus the Knicks.
Joel Embiid wants to prevent a repeat of the last playoff series against the Knicks, where many Knicks fans filled the Wells Fargo Center, making it feel like a home game for New York.
The 76ers lost the first-round series to the Knicks in six games, with the home court advantage diminished due to a large number of Knicks fans in attendance.
Embiid emphasized that fan support is crucial, stating, 'This is bigger than you. We need you,' urging fans to keep their tickets for the playoff series.
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Yet with even upper-level mezzanine seats going for more than $500 at center court and $300 behind the basket (via GameTime), Embiid acknowleged that several fans may want to sell their seats to earn some extra income. The 2023 NBA MVP, whoâs being paid an estimated $58 million this season (according to Spotrac), jokingly offered to help out if making some money was an issue.
âIf you need money, I got you,â he said.
Embiid scored 34 points and grabbed 12 rebounds to lead the 76ers to a win at Bostonâs TD Garden. He provided a crucial offensive and defensive presence on the floor despite dealing with an abdominal injury that required him to be stretched out by team trainers. Embiid also had a scare when Tyrese Maxey was pushed back into his left knee.
However, Embiid dismissed questions about his health after the game.
âI feel great. I feel amazing,â he said. âI was faking it.â
The Sixers begin their second-round series with the Knicks on Monday at Madison Square Garden. Tip-off is scheduled for 8 p.m. ET.
Game 3 in Philadelphia is set for Friday at 7 p.m. ET. Lower-level seats near the court are going for $4,000 and more. But for those who want to turn a significant profit, Embiid may be able to help them out.