Key Points
Joel Embiid was fined by the NBA for making a “lewd gesture.”
The incident occurred in the first quarter of the game against the Boston Celtics on Oct. 31.
Embiid reacted to the news shortly after it was announced on Sunday.
After a 2024 campaign plagued by injuries, Philadelphia 76ers superstar Joel Embiid has made a full recovery. While he’s still ramping up and getting back into basketball shape, his return has been a welcome boost for a 76ers team loaded with talent in a wide-open Eastern Conference.
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However, following the team’s narrow 109–108 loss to the Boston Celtics on Oct. 31, Embiid was fined $50,000 by the NBA for making a “lewd gesture.” The incident occurred at 7:08 in the first quarter.
Embiid had a pointed response to the league’s decision, saying, “Y’all better start fining the refs for doing the ‘lewd,’ ‘blocking foul’ gesture since I’m not allowed to do it.”
Philadelphia 76ers center Joel Embiid reacts after the game against the Minnesota Timberwolves. Kyle Ross-Imagn ImagesKyle Ross-Imagn Images
Joel Embiid allegedly made a motion similar to what referees do when calling a blocking foul — exactly what he referenced in his comments on Sunday following the NBA’s announcement.
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The former top-five pick has had an eventful NBA career, currently in his 10th season. While it’s technically been 12 years since he was drafted, Embiid missed his first two seasons due to injury. Despite being prone to injuries throughout his career, he has cemented himself as one of the all-time great big men in the league.
Over his career, Embiid is averaging 27.6 points, 11.0 rebounds, and 3.5 assists per game. This season, in four games, he is averaging 17.3 points, 5.3 rebounds, and 3.5 assists.
Related: Final Injury Report for 76ers-Nets, Will Joel Embiid, Paul George Play?
This story was originally reported by Athlon Sports on Nov 3, 2025, where it first appeared in the NBA section. Add Athlon Sports as a Preferred Source by clicking here.