It appears Luka Dončić and Zion Williamson aren’t the only players with a stunning transformation. Fans also took notice of Joel Embiid’s seemingly slimmer frame in a viral social media post.
The Philadelphia 76ers posted photos of the team’s stars wearing the iconic 2001 black jerseys worn by Allen Iverson and the Sixers team that made the NBA Finals. Embiid looked leaner in the post, sparking reactions from 76ers analyst John Clark and fans.
NBC Analyst, Fans Drop Shocked Reactions to Joel Embiid’s Viral Transformation
Taking to X, NBC and 76ers reporter John Clark shared the news of the jerseys while also commenting on Embiid’s transformation. “Back in black! The Sixers are bringing back the jerseys from the 2001 AI Sixers team that went to the NBA Finals,” his tweet read. “The Sixers are celebrating the 25th anniversary of that team. The new uniforms will debut on Nov. 8. Joel Embiid looking slimmer!”
Back in black! The Sixers are bringing back the jerseys from the 2001 AI Sixers team that went to the NBA Finals. The Sixers are celebrating the 25th anniversary of that team. The new uniforms will debut November 8.
Joel Embiid looking slimmer! pic.twitter.com/ozTcKBc2JV
— John Clark (@JClarkNBCS) September 24, 2025
Fans shared their two cents on the post. “Bout time he lost some weight,” one comment read. Another fan believed the transformation could have been better, tweeting, “He has to be in better shape.
“With every picture of skinny Embiid I see, my heart grows 3 sizes. I am so in it hurts,” another tweet read.
With every picture of skinny Embiid I see, my heart grows 3 sizes. I am so in it hurts. pic.twitter.com/sY5seohAsM
— Josh Reynolds (@JoshReynolds24) September 19, 2025
One fan believed this was good news for Philadelphia. “Joel Embiid playing fives, three days before camp starts, well, that seems like it should be a great sign to Philadelphia 76ers fans,” he said.
Earlier, the Sixers shared a video of the former MVP playing 5-on-5 with his teammates. This comes as an encouraging sign after knee issues hampered his 2024-25 NBA season. He was limited to just 19 games, averaging 23.8 points, 8.2 rebounds, and 4.5 assists.
With his superstar teammate Paul George missing significant time due to injuries, Philadelphia struggled last season. They managed just 24 wins and ended their season in 13th place.
For the 76ers to make any noise this season, they will need their “Big 3” of Embiid, George, and Tyrese Maxey in pristine health and solid form. They will face a stern challenge from the Cleveland Cavaliers, New York Knicks, Milwaukee Bucks, and Detroit Pistons. It remains to be seen if a new-look Embiid can vault them into contention.
