Joel Embiid fined for 'obscene gestures,' sparking fan backlash against the NBA

Philadelphia 76ers center Joel Embiid (30) was penalized $75,000 by the NBA on Friday for engaging in "obscene gestures on the playing court" during the Sixers' 118-114 win against the Boston Celtics on Christmas Day.

According to a statement from the league, the incidents took place in the first half of the 76ers' triumph in Boston, where Embiid recorded 27 points and nine rebounds. Fans quickly took to social media to express their opinions on the matter.

Embiid celebrated a layup in the first half with a "DX crotch chop" gesture, which he has previously adopted from professional wrestling and has faced fines for in the past.

Additionally, he directed another gesture towards Boston fans following a three-pointer just before halftime.

The 2023 NBA Most Valuable Player has participated in only nine games this season due to injuries, the most recent being a sinus fracture that necessitates him to wear a protective mask, along with a three-game suspension stemming from a physical confrontation with a journalist.

Before Wednesday's game, Embiid experienced another injury scare when he fell over the security rope at the edge of the court during warmups, causing him to grab his right ankle.

He made another gesture towards the Boston fans following a three-pointer just prior to halftime.

The 2023 NBA Most Valuable Player has participated in only nine games this season due to injuries, the most recent being a sinus fracture that necessitates him wearing a protective mask, along with a three-game suspension resulting from a physical confrontation with a journalist.

Before Wednesday's game, Embiid experienced another injury scare when he tripped over the security rope at the edge of the court during warmups, causing him to clutch his right ankle.

Although he seemed unaffected during the game, he was listed as "questionable" for the upcoming match against the Utah Jazz on Saturday due to a sinus fracture and a sprain in his left foot.