Former NFL Star Tiki Barber Trashes Joel Embiid

Originally posted on The Spun | By Chris Rosvoglou | Last updated May 5, 2026 4:25 PM ET

Philadelphia 76ers star Joel Embiid may have no choice but to get in a social media feud this week.

Before the NBA playoffs started, Embiid underwent emergency surgery to treat appendicitis. He returned to action on April 26 for Game 4 of Philadelphia's first-round series with the Boston Celtics. His team eventually erased a 3-1 series deficit to advance to the next round of the playoffs.

Unfortunately for the 76ers, Embiid had a rough outing in Game 1 of the Eastern Conference semifinals. The former MVP went 3-of-11 from the field for 14 points in a 137-98 loss to the New York Knicks. He had a major issue with the way Mikal Bridges made contact with his midsection during the second quarter.

"I felt like it was unnecessary, but we move on," Embiid told reporters. "It’s whatever, it’s playoff basketball. If that’s the reality of it, I guess we’ve got to go out and be physical, too, and do it, too."

May 4, 2026; New York, New York, USA; Philadelphia 76ers center Joel Embiid (21) reacts during the first quarter of game one of the eastern conference semifinal round of the 2026 NBA Playoffs against the New York Knicks at Madison Square Garden. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-Imagn Images© Brad Penner-Imagn Images.

Embiid's postgame remarks didn't sit well with former New York Giants running back and WFAN host Tiki Barber.

During this Tuesday's episode of "Evan & Tiki," the former All-Pro ripped Embiid for complaining about his injury.

"If it’s gonna hurt, to physically be hurt, and someone might run into you, accidentally or otherwise, don’t play. I remember when I had a broken arm in 2000? I had to tape my other arm because they were literally stepping on it, knowing I had a broken arm. I didn't complain about it," Barber said. "It’s part of the risk of playing hurt. So, stop being a b----."

"You don't complain about it, you just don't. If you do, it's like asking for sympathy. That's just weak. I don't love that."

It's safe to say Barber didn't hold back his true feelings about Embiid.

Tiki RIPPED Joel Embiid for sounding like a "b---" and committing "a crime against sports honor" pic.twitter.com/uIku7TzF1G
— WFAN Sports Radio (@WFAN660) May 5, 2026

76ers are ready for a feisty Game 2.

Embiid's postgame remarks will most likely be plastered on all the walls of the Knicks' locker room, but he's not the only member of the 76ers who caused some controversy this week.

With Game 2 set for this Wednesday night, 76ers forward Kelly Oubre Jr. told reporters that Knicks star Jalen Brunson benefits from having a "big head." No, we're not kidding.

"It's definitely tough to guard with his head doing all that [flopping gesture]," Oubre said.

The Knicks haven't said much in return, but they'll be ready for Game 2. A win would put all the pressure on the 76ers before the series shifts over to the City of Brotherly Love.

This article first appeared on The Spun and was syndicated with permission.

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