Philadelphia 76ers' big man, Joel Embiid, recently found himself in hot water with the NBA. He was slapped with a fine for his exuberant D-Generation X-themed celebration during a game against the Portland Trail Blazers.
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Philadelphia 76ers’ big man, Joel Embiid, recently found himself in hot water with the NBA. He was slapped with a fine for his exuberant D-Generation X-themed celebration during a game against the Portland Trail Blazers. In a nod to the legendary wrestling stable, Embiid punctuated a basket with a series of emphatic crotch chops, which caught the league’s attention (video here).
While the NBA may not have been amused by Embiid’s antics, Triple H, a pivotal member of D-Generation X, known for the iconic crotch chop, was far more appreciative. He extended a supportive message to Embiid in response to the fine. Triple H took to social media to say, “Hey @JoelEmbiid – I know a place where you can do that all day, and everyone will love it. @WrestleMania 40 is right there in Philly…”
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Indeed, WrestleMania 40 is set to electrify Philadelphia from April 6-7, and the wrestling community is buzzing with excitement. The prospect of Embiid bringing his unique celebration style to the grand stage of WrestleMania resonated with fans. However, a scheduling clash proved to be a stumbling block. The 76ers had prior commitments, playing back-to-back games in Memphis and San Antonio on those very dates. In response to Triple H’s invitation, Embiid expressed his enthusiasm but acknowledged the logistical hurdles, writing, “Yes sir!! I would love to but I don’t think I’m gonna be in Philly for that… #NBA.”
Joel Embiid’s passion for wrestling isn’t a newfound fascination. Born in 1994, he likely spent his formative years watching legends like Triple H and the rest of D-Generation X during their late-1990s to 2000s heyday. It’s worth noting that this isn’t Embiid’s first encounter with the NBA’s disciplinary measures for replicating the DX crotch chop; he was fined for a similar celebration last season. This time around, he not only faced a fine but also received a message from Triple H, which he can undoubtedly treasure as a unique memento.
In the world of sports and entertainment, Embiid’s celebration bridges the gap between the basketball court and the wrestling ring. It’s a reminder that passion knows no boundaries, and admiration can flow in unexpected directions, as a basketball star finds support and encouragement from a wrestling icon.
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