Philadelphia 76ers Fade into Media Background
Photo by: David Dow
The Philadelphia 76ers and frontman Joel Embiid have been cruising this season, currently sitting in third place in the Eastern Conference with a record of 26-13.
But even with this impressive record and a .667 winning percentage (PCT), it seems as though the team is not getting as much recognition, resulting in fans beginning to overlook the star power and brilliance of the team.
The NBA that we know and love is filled with talent, but between social media and the constant highlight reel plays, fans are trained to move onto the next big moment all too quickly. And for a team like the 76ers, who are playing solid, fundamental basketball, their underappreciation is evident. Many basketball fans start and end their day scrolling through Instagram and X, checking Bleacher Report, Overtime, or the NBA accounts. However, after diving into these pages, there was barely any information about the 76ers.
With trades understandably consuming a big part of social media right now, it may be expected that certain teams are not getting as much coverage if they sit in the middle of the pack.
But let’s break down the team’s season statistics:
As a whole, the team is averaging 119.9 Points Per Game (PPG). Individually: Joel Embiid is dropping 35.1 PPG, and also impressively marks 19 consecutive games with 30+ points. Further, Tyrese Maxey has an average of 26.1 PPG and Tobias Harris with 17.9 PPG.
.@sixers @JoelEmbiid has scored 30 pts in his first 24 minutes, marking his 19th consecutive game w/ at least 30 pts.
— Sixers Stats (@SixersStats) January 20, 2024
He breaks a tie w/ Elgin Baylor for the 6th-longest streak in @NBAHistory. Only @JHarden13 and Wilt Chamberlain have ever had a longer streak.
h/t @EliasSports
The team is also averaging 43.6 Rebounds Per Game, 25.5 Assists Per Game, and 9.1 Steals Per Game. These statistics tell a story, and one that should include more media recognition.
.@Sixers improved to 27-13 on the season after tonight’s win over the @OrlandoMagic.
— Sixers Stats (@SixersStats) January 20, 2024
It’s the third time since 1985 that the team has won at least 27 of its first 40 games (2020-21 and 2000-01).
h/t @Stathead
After their game on Friday night vs. the Orlando Magic, the official account of the NBA on X only showcased three total posts for the team and their victory over the Magic. And for a team that sits 2nd in the Atlantic division, and 3rd in the Eastern Conference, it is truly strange as to why they do not receive more media spotlight.
The Franchise & The Process ce soir :
— 76ers France (27-13) (@FR_76ers) January 20, 2024
Joel Embiid Tyrese Maxey
36 points 32 points
7 rebonds 5 assists
4 steals 3 steals
12/22 FG 10/20 FG
11/11 FT 4/10 3PT pic.twitter.com/NCvN8I4SJe
As Embiid and the Sixers continue to have an impressive and record breaking season, the question remains; will their media attention will grow, or if they will fade into background noise?
