Philadelphia fans can finally breathe a sigh of relief — Joel Embiid is back.
The reigning MVP is set to make his preseason debut for the 76ers after being officially cleared to play, according to NBA insider Chris Haynes.
The news ends weeks of speculation about Embiid’s fitness heading into the new campaign and his return is a massive lift for Philadelphia as they look to build back their chemistry and regain momentum before the regular season tips off.
BREAKING: Joel Embiid is BACK tonight, per @ChrisBHaynes pic.twitter.com/GFUYIcZWwY
— NBACentral (@TheDunkCentral) October 17, 2025
Embiid, one of the league’s most dominant two-way forces, has been the focal point of the Sixers’ success for years. His combination of elite scoring, rim protection, and leadership will once again anchor a roster determined to make a deep postseason run in a fiercely competitive Eastern Conference.