Joel Embiid scored a franchise-record of 70 points on Monday night, breaking Wilt Chamberlain’s 76ers record of 68 points that had stood since 1967.
He also grabbed 18 rebounds and dished out five assists, becoming the ninth player in NBA history to score 70 or more points in a game.
Embiid is considered one of the most dominant players in the NBA today. The Philadelphia 76ers center has been putting up MVP-caliber numbers for the past few seasons, leading his team to the top of the Eastern Conference.
Last night, he also led the 76ers to a 133-123 victory over the San Antonio Spurs, extending their winning streak to six games. He shot 24-of-41 from the field, 21-of-23 from the free throw line, and 1-of-2 from the three-point line.
Fans of the game said he seemed unstoppable and dominant on both ends of the court as he went against Victor Wembanyama, a rookie sensation, who had no answer for Embiid’s strength and skill.
According to Embiid during a broadcast,
“My mindset is to attack, dominate offensively and defensively, so tonight was no different.”
He scored 34 points and grabbed 10 rebounds in the first half alone. He continued his onslaught in the third quarter, reaching 59 points and tying his previous career-high. He then broke Chamberlain’s record with a free throw in the fourth quarter, and capped off his night with a coast-to-coast layup for his 70th point.
He finally received a standing ovation from the fans and his teammates when he checked out of the game with 1:41 left.
John Embiid also dedicated his performance to his former coach Brett Brown, who is now an assistant coach for the Spurs.
“I’m glad I did it in front of him,” Embiid says smiling. “Nah, but obviously, I started with him. My first coach. He’s taught me a lot. Not just on the basketball side, but off the court, too. Just maturing. He’s a big part of it so it’s always good to see him.”
