Philadelphia 76ers’ Joel Embiid, the reigning NBA MVP and one of the league’s most dominant forces, has not only excelled in his on-court performances but has also elevated his leadership to new heights, according to teammate Tyrese Maxey.
In a recent interview with Shams Charania on Stadium, Maxey highlighted the significant shift in Embiid’s communication style, emphasizing the transformation since Maxey entered the league.
Maxey shared, “Communication. His communication has changed a lot. My first year, he didn’t talk at all, barely talk. It was crazy. I’ve never seen him before. This guy just doesn’t talk. But now, the way he communicates with his teammates, whether it’s on a plane, on a bus, in shoot-around, in practice, he’s always involved.”
Maxey went on to describe how Embiid’s evolving communication style, filled with laughter, jokes, and constructive criticism, has become a pivotal aspect of team dynamics.
According to Maxey, Embiid talks to everyone, offering encouragement and occasionally challenging teammates to elevate their game.
Despite the sometimes-tough critiques, Maxey emphasized the underlying love and desire for team success that characterizes Embiid’s leadership style. Maxey noted, “As great as a player he is, he’s become a better leader.”
