As a huge fan of basketball, I can remember the day when Joel Embiid predicted his future as an MVP. In 2014, as a rookie for the Philadelphia 76ers, he was already sidelined with a foot injury. But on Twitter, he confidently declared that he would be the league’s MVP award winner within five years. It seemed like a bold statement at the time, but fast forward to 2021, and Embiid has become a top player in the league, proving that he indeed has the skills to back up his prediction.
Introduction
Joel Embiid is one of the best young basketball players in the world. He has been in the NBA for just a few years, but he has already proven himself to be a dominant force on the court. Embiid has a unique combination of size, athleticism, and skill that makes him a nightmare for opposing teams. However, what really sets Embiid apart from other players is his confidence. Embiid has always been extremely confident in his abilities, and he has not been shy about sharing his opinions with the world.
The Injury
When Embiid was drafted in 2014, he was expected to be a franchise-changing player for the Philadelphia 76ers. However, things did not go as planned. Embiid suffered a foot injury that required multiple surgeries, and he was forced to miss his entire rookie season. This was a devastating blow for Embiid, who had been waiting his entire life to play in the NBA.
The Tweet
Despite the injury, Embiid remained confident. He believed that he was going to be a superstar, and he was not afraid to let people know it. In fact, in November of 2014, just a few months after his injury, Embiid made a bold prediction on Twitter. He tweeted:
“Rookie of the year….Mitchell or Simmons ? Too easy…will be MVP someday”
At the time, Embiid’s tweet was met with skepticism. Many people thought that he was being cocky and unrealistic. After all, he had not even played a game in the NBA yet. How could he possibly know that he was going to be an MVP someday?
The Redemption
Fast forward to today, and Embiid’s tweet looks like a stroke of genius. Since returning from his injury in 2016, Embiid has been one of the best players in the NBA. He has earned multiple All-Star selections, and he was named to the All-NBA Second Team in 2019. In the 2020-2021 season, Embiid had the best season of his career, averaging 28.5 points, 10.6 rebounds, and 2.8 assists per game. He led the 76ers to the best record in the Eastern Conference and was a finalist for the MVP award.
The MVP
And then, on June 8th, 2021, Joel Embiid’s prediction came true. He was named the winner of the NBA’s Most Valuable Player Award for the 2020-2021 season. Embiid became the first player in 76ers history to win the award since Allen Iverson in 2001. It was a historic moment for Embiid, who had overcome so much adversity to get to this point.
The Impact
Embiid’s MVP win is important for several reasons. First and foremost, it is a testament to his talent and hard work. Embiid has worked tirelessly to improve his game, and his dedication has paid off in a big way. He has become one of the best players in the NBA, and his MVP win is a recognition of that fact.
Secondly, Embiid’s win is important because it breaks down barriers. Embiid is the first African-born player to win the MVP award since Hakeem Olajuwon in 1994. Embiid has always been proud of his African heritage, and his win is a source of inspiration for young African basketball players all over the world.
Finally, Embiid’s win is important because it sets a precedent. Embiid’s confidence and self-belief have always been a part of his game, and his MVP win shows that it is possible to achieve great things if you believe in yourself. This is a message that can inspire people from all walks of life, not just basketball fans.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Joel Embiid’s prediction of an MVP win as an injured rookie on Twitter was met with skepticism at the time, but Embiid’s hard work and dedication have made that prediction a reality. Embiid’s MVP win is a testament to his talent, his perseverance, and his confidence. It is a historic moment for Embiid, for the 76ers, and for basketball fans everywhere. Embiid has proven that anything is possible if you believe in yourself, and that is a powerful message that will continue to inspire people for years to come.
