Philadelphia 76ers’ Media Day has arrived with Training Camp starting tomorrow in Charleston, SC. Media Day 2022 lacked the drama that surrounded the team last year, but there are still questions about this team and the roster entering this season.
Daryl Morey, Doc Rivers, and the players stepped up to the mic to answer some burning questions about the offseason and the upcoming seasons. Here are some notable takeaways from today’s media day:
Takeaways from the Philadelphia 76ers’ 2022 media day
Doc Rivers Focusing On Team Building and Defense
Philadelphia 76ers’ Head Coach Doc Rivers and General Daryl Morey kicked off Media Day. Although Doc Rivers answered an array of questions, his focus seemed to be on two things, defense and team building. Rivers believes their focus this upcoming season should be on defense, and that is what they should hang their hat on. After James Harden’s arrival, the Sixers were 2nd in the NBA in offense but only 13th in defense, and Rivers would like to improve on that ranking.
Rivers also mentioned how building chemistry and team bonding is very important to their goal of winning a championship. He noted that the Sixers met in Los Angeles this summer to spend time together and play together and that was something he was happy to see. The Philadelphia 76ers are also spending training camp in Charleston, SC, where they not only get ready for the season but learn some history too.
Joel Embiid Focused On Team Success
Joel Embiid is coming into the 2022-23 NBA season focused only on his team’s success. Embiid is coming off back-to-back MVP-runner-up seasons and isn’t focused on winning MVP anymore. He stated that he isn’t worried about the MVP anymore and whatever happens, happens.
Embiid wants to focus on being the best team in the league and, specifically, the best defensive team in the league. He mentioned that he wanted to get back to being who he really is defensive for all four quarters and not just turning it on in the 4th quarter. With James Harden taking some of the offensive load, he can put more energy into defense the entire game.
James Harden Ready For Full Season
James Harden showed up to Media Day hyped and ready to get a full season going with the Philadelphia 76ers. Harden worked this offseason to get healthier and in better shape. He jokingly exclaimed that he had lost 100 pounds with his new slim and trim look. Harden also stated that he worked this summer to make sure that he was on the same page with Joel Embiid, Doc Rivers, and Tyrese Maxey.
BONUS POINTS: Harden was asked about the Philadelphia Eagles and gave props to the defense and the current play of QB Jalen Hurts. Go Birds!
Tobias Harris Locked In
If there was any player on the Philadelphia 76ers who had to sacrifice the most after the arrival of James Harden, it was Tobias Harris. He became more of a catch-and-shoot player, which is a role he hadn’t been in thus far in his career.
After he bought into his role, his three-point percentage improved, and he focused this summer on building upon that success. Harris knows that being a quick catch-and-shoot player can help the spacing for his teammates, and he knows that it is something the team needs from him.
Harris also downplayed any adjustments with P.J. Tucker in the lineup. He stated that in Rivers’ system, there really aren’t 3’s and 4’s but just forwards, and their matchups will depend on who they play each night.
Thybulle Hopes Hard Work Will Pay Off
Matisse Thybulle spent the offseason trying to become a better offensive player for the Philadelphia 76ers. With trade rumors swirling, Thybulle says he took the summer to focus on being able to contribute on offense. He spent the summer working on shooting and ball handling, with Keith Pompey confirming he worked with Damian Lillard’s shooting coach.
Tyrese Maxey All In On Team
Tyrese Maxey’s media day consisted of the 3rd year guard saying all the right things and leaning toward the idea of a team. Maxey spent much of his time during his presser to big up his teammate Paul Reed and other Sixers teammates. He made a statement saying that this team is focused on “We and not Me.”
The theme continues to be team first for the Philadelphia 76ers this season.
P.J. Tucker Ready To Work
P.J. Tucker met with the media for the first time since joining the Philadelphia 76ers during Media Day 2022. He first confirmed that he did have arthroscopic left knee surgery six weeks ago but is now cleared for training camp. He is ready to get to work, and he wanted to be a Sixer two seasons ago, noting this is the best situation for him.
With Media Day out the way, the focus for the Philadelphia 76ers now sets on Training camp and the start of preseason, and Philly Sports Network will keep you in the loop along the way.
