Joel Embiid has a lot to say and its not pretty for Sixers fans. The New York Knicks’ playoff matchup against the Philadelphia 76ers at the Wells Fargo Center on Sunday demonstrated the indisputable value of fan attendance in the NBA postseason. The game felt more like a home game for the Knicks. The arena rang with Knicks fans’ yells and roars, even though the game was being staged in Philadelphia. It was almost like being back in Madison Square Garden.
Thousands of Knicks fans in hostile territory appeared to tip the odds in favor of the team, as the Knicks defeated the Sixers 97-92 to take a commanding 3-1 series lead.
Joel Embiid was asked about the amount of Knicks fans in the Wells Fargo Center during games 3 and 4.
"It kinda pisses me off, especially because Philly is considered a sports town. They've always showed up. I don't think that should happen. It's not okay. " pic.twitter.com/D7o35zi7k4
— PHLY Sixers (@PHLY_Sixers) April 28, 2024
Throughout the game, Knicks supporters were unmistakably present in the arena, their unflinching support punctuating important moments. Joel Embiid of Philadelphia was about to walk up to the free-throw line when the loud cheers from the stands highlighted the peculiar atmosphere of a home game that was packed with fans of the opposition.
Philadelphia was taken over by Knicks fans
The on-court experience was reflected in the post-game scenes, as Sixers star Joel Embiid appeared to be unhappy with the makeup of the audience. The Knicks’ massive fan base surely produced a strange environment for the home team, which might have contributed to Embiid’s fourth-quarter problems (he finished with just one point and no field goals).
It’s INSANITY inside Wells Fargo pic.twitter.com/taufSxAbQM
— NYKTerry (@NykTerry) April 28, 2024
The atmosphere was certainly shaped by the Knicks fans, but the Sixers’ squandered opportunities were also brought to light by the game’s conclusion. Philadelphia had plenty of opportunities to win despite the boisterous crowd, especially since none of the Knicks’ supporting players could find a consistent shooting rhythm. But Jalen Brunson’s outstanding play—he finished with an incredible 47 points—was what finally decided New York’s victory.
Joel Embiid wasn’t expected to make a comeback this quick
The Sixers will have to contend with an intimidating home crowd that is expected to reach previously unheard-of levels of passion when the series returns to Madison Square Garden for a crucial Game 5. Joel Embiid and his teammates are ready for an incredible atmosphere, if Sunday’s extravaganza is any guide.
