Joel Embiid is calling on Philadelphia 76ers fans to protect their home-court advantage as the team prepares for a big rematch against the New York Knicks. The superstar center expressed how vital local support will be for the upcoming series, urging supporters to ensure the atmosphere remains firmly in Philadelphia’s favor.
According to Derek Bodner on X, Embiid issued a direct challenge to the fanbase to prevent a repeat of previous postseason takeovers. He stated, “I have a message for our fans. Last time we played the Knicks, it felt like [Philly] was Madison Square Garden East. We’re gonna need the support. Don’t sell your tickets. This is bigger than you…If you need money, I got you”.
The plea comes at a time when Nick Nurse knows what makes the Knicks dangerous for the 76ers. Embiid believes that having a loud, loyal crowd will be essential to matching that intensity and overcoming a New York team that has already proven it can win on the road.
Embiid finds peace in trusting his teammates during the 2026 run
Reflecting on his personal performance, Embiid shared that he no longer feels the crushing weight of having to do everything himself to secure a victory. “I’ve always taken the blame for everything that has happened,” he admitted, adding that it “means a lot” to finally be in a position where he can trust his teammates to deliver in big moments.
The 76ers currently lead the all-time playoff games record against the Knicks 23-16 and hold a 5-3 edge in series wins, though the sting of their 2024 first-round exit still lingers. During that last meeting, New York won 4-2 before losing an epic seven-game series to the Pacers, but now the two rivals meet again two years later.
With elite scorers like Jalen Brunson and Tyrese Maxey set to clash alongside the Embiid-Towns battle, the star center emphasized that “you can’t win alone”. He believes this year’s squad has the necessary depth to finally overcome the hurdle that has kept Philadelphia from the conference finals for so long.
