The NBA has launched an investigation into an incident involving Philadelphia 76ers star center Joel Embiid and a local columnist following the team's loss to the Memphis Grizzlies. The confrontation occurred in the Sixers' locker room, where Embiid reportedly confronted and shoved the columnist after the latter had published a critical article about the player's preparation for the season.

Uncovering the Heated Clash Between Embiid and the Columnist

Embiid's Confrontation with the Columnist

According to reports, a visibly angry Embiid confronted Philadelphia Inquirer columnist Marcus Hayes as reporters entered the Sixers' locker room following the team's defeat. The incident was sparked by a column Hayes had published on October 23, in which he criticized Embiid for not being adequately prepared for the start of the season. In the column, Hayes had referenced Embiid's late brother Arthur and his 4-year-old son, which the player took issue with.Embiid reportedly told Hayes, "The next time you bring up my dead brother and my son again, you are going to see what I'm going to do to you and I'm going to have to … live with the consequences." The 76ers center then continued to mouth off at the columnist, who eventually offered an apology. However, Embiid refused to accept Hayes' attempts to make amends.

The Aftermath and the NBA's Investigation

After Embiid stated that he doesn't care what reporters say, Hayes interjected with, "But you do," leading the 76ers star to become even more agitated. The confrontation then escalated, with Embiid reportedly pushing Hayes on the shoulder. The team's public relations chief intervened to separate the two.The NBA has since confirmed that it is aware of the incident and has commenced an investigation. "We are aware of reports of an incident in the Sixers locker room this evening and are commencing an investigation," an NBA spokesperson stated.

Embiid's Criticism of the Columnist's Remarks

In his column, Hayes had brought up Embiid's late brother and son while questioning the player's professionalism. The columnist wrote, "Joel Embiid consistently points to the birth of his son, Arthur, as the major inflection point in his career. He often says that he wants to be great to leave a legacy for the boy named after his little brother, who tragically died in an automobile accident when Embiid was in his first year as a 76er."Hayes continued, "Well, in order to be great at your job, you first have to show up for work. Embiid has been great at just the opposite. Now in his 11th season, he consistently has been in poor condition."Embiid had previously fired back at the criticism, specifically mentioning Hayes. "When I see people say 'he does not want to play,' I've done way too much for this city, putting myself at risk for people to be saying that. I do think this is bullsh*t," Embiid said. "Like that dude, he's not here, Marcus, I've done way too much for this f**king city to be treated like this. Done way too f**king much."

The 76ers' Fines and Embiid's Contract Extension

The 76ers were fined $100,000 by the NBA on Friday for public statements made by team president Daryl Morey and head coach Nick Nurse that were inconsistent with Embiid's health status and violated the league's rules.In September, Embiid signed a three-year contract extension with the 76ers, worth a reported $192.9 million. However, the star center has not played in a game this season, and the team sits at 1-4 following Saturday night's loss as they continue to play without both Embiid and offseason acquisition Paul George.