Credit: Bill Streicher-Imagn Images

Rockets Coach Sends Blunt Message About Joel Embiid's Foul-Baiting

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Reign Amurao | Last updated Jan 22, 2026 8:54 PM ET

Philadelphia 76ers star Joel Embiid is no stranger to receiving criticism about his style of play. Embiid's tendency to exploit the defense by committing fouls to generate easy points has drawn criticism. Assistant coach Royal Ivey called out his foul-baiting playstyle during Thursday's game against the Houston Rockets.

In the first half, Embiid had nine free throws and 18 points. His chances at the charity stripe gave the 76ers a 68-61 lead. His style wasn't approved by Ivey, who was visibly frustrated over the easy chances the star had in the first two quarters. The assistant coach was interviewed courtside, and he aired his disappointment.

Philadelphia 76ers center Joel Embiid (21).Kyle Ross-Imagn Images

“It’s the fouling. Embiid shoots nine free throws that half,” Ivey said. “The foul-baiting is crazy right now. We just gotta be more disciplined. We’re showing our hands; he’s trying to swipe through.

Ivey was asked what he wants to see from Rockets center Alperen Sengun in his matchup against Embiid. The coach said he wants to see more aggression from the star center.

“Just keep on driving them, make him play defense on the other side. He just wants to play offense right now. Make him guard.”

"[Joel] Embiid shoots 9 free throws that half. The foul baiting is crazy right now. ... He just wants to play offense right now. Make him guard."

Rockets assistant coach Royal Ivey on the Sixers star heading into halftime pic.twitter.com/2njob5Kac7
— ClutchPoints (@ClutchPoints) January 23, 2026

While Embiid hasn't directly addressed the accusations of him being a foul-baiter, his 76ers teammate, Jared McCain, relayed a message. McCain discussed the advantage of drawing fouls in May 2025, saying that the 2023 MVP considers it a smart play.

In his career, Embiid averages 9.9 attempts from the free-throw line. When he won the MVP, he led the league in makes at the line with 10.0. The seven-time All-Star has also led the league in attempts and makes at the line two seasons before.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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