Joel Embiid Confirms He's Done With The MVP Race

Joel Embiid isn't worried about becoming MVP this season, and he made his feelings about it quite clear.

The Philadelphia 76ers' big man has been in the headlines for some time now, especially after his snub as a starter during the 2023 NBA All-Star Weekend. Despite his stellar run, Embiid didn't make the cut causing quite the outrage on social media.

The two-time MVP runner-up has been instrumental for the Sixers this season averaging 33.8 points, 10.0 rebounds, and 4.2 assists. He went on a rampage against the Denver Nuggets notching up 47 points, 18 rebounds, and 5 assists to help his side register a 126-119 win.

Speaking to the media in the aftermath of the win, Embiid shared his two cents on his MVP-caliber run. Per ESPN:

"I don't know. That's up to you guys to decide," Embiid told ESPN with a smile, referring to the media, who votes for MVP and the other season-ending awards. "Like I told you, I'm done arguing for myself. It's all out there. Whatever I do.

Embiid reiterated that it was all about winning at this stage. He was happy that he was able to contribute to the wins and added that the focus was always on propping up victories helping them get closer to winning an NBA title.

Joel Embiid Shares His Thoughts On The All-Star Starters Selection

The conversation in the post-game press conference naturally had questions about his starter snub, and Embiid was candid when he said it felt a "little disrespectful."

He also opined how the voting system would have taken his personality into account, and added that he wasn't too worried about not making the cut.

"I was not surprised. I think it's well documented that I'm not well-liked. That's cool. I don't know it's because I troll a lot or that I guess I'm an a--hole. But it's cool. I keep being me. I keep being an a**hole, and I keep trolling, and if people don't like it, that's their problem. But like I said, it all goes back to winning."

There's no doubt that Embiid will be one of the favorite candidates to make the All-Star reserves, but with his sights firmly set on the championship, he will be working to get his side into the postseason and beyond.

The Sixers are placed second in the East with a 32-16 record and will play the Orlando Magic twice next giving themselves a chance to land two more wins and consolidate their position.