Ah, it’s all-star weekend. Despite many players not wanting to play during the annual weekend, most of the players are heading to participate in the weekend’s festivities. The Philadelphia Sixers’ MVP frontrunner, Joel Embiid, is going to be a starter for the fourth straight year.
Embiid is on an absolute tear to start the first half of the season. The big man has played in 30 of the team’s 36 games. In these matchups, he’s averaging 30.2 points per game, with just under 12 rebounds. While his performance on the court is stellar, his contributions away from the game continue to be just as impactful.
The Sixers’ center is donating his $100,000 in all-star earnings to homeless shelters in the Philadelphia area.
Per the 76er’s PR team, Embiid announced today that he will donate his winnings from Sunday’s NBA All-Star Game to Philadelphia homeless shelters, including Project HOME, Sunday Breakfast Mission and Youth Service INC. Embiid put out the following statement:
“So many have fallen on such hard times during the pandemic,” Embiid said. “I felt it was important to provide more support for individuals and families struggling with homelessness and food insecurity. I’m continually grateful for all of the support that Philadelphia and the fans have given me not just around All-Star but all my years in the league. I will continue to help in any way I can.”
Again, per the 76er’s PR team, “Embiid’s commitment will help area homeless by providing:
- 15,000 meals for homeless and underserved individuals
- 4,000 essential clothing items donated to homeless teens and adults
- Care and treatment of 1,000 homeless individuals receiving COVID-19 vaccines
- Support for 30+ formerly homeless families – including education, health care, and employment services
- Funding for a six-week summer camp for 50+ homeless and at-risk youth
- Shelter and essential needs for over 300 teens facing homelessness or home insecurity “
Sixers in the All-Star Game
Joel Embiid will not be alone in this weekend’s star-filled event. Embiid, who will be playing for Team Durant, will be opposed by fellow Sixer Ben Simmons. Simmons, averaging just over 16 points and just under eight boards and assists per game, also earned the nod. Simmons will be playing on Team Lebron.
The game will tip-off this Sunday in Atlanta Game time is set for 8 p.m. on TNT.
Photo Credit: Kyle Ross/Icon Sportswire
