Essential takeaways from Philadelphia 76ers 2024 Media Day
The Philadelphia 76ers officially kicked off the 2024-2025 season with a media day full of excitement and optimism with fans and reporters finally getting the chance to see the team’s new star trio: Joel Embiid, Tyrese Maxey, and Paul George.
This year’s media day vibe was miles away from last year’s uncertainty. As Kelly Oubre Jr. put it, “the difference is night and day.” Confidence is sky-high, and it’s clear this squad believes in what they’re building.
Joel Embiid’s prioritizing his availability for postseason
After Joel Embiid’s dominant summer at the 2024 Olympics, some were worried about whether he’d be in shape for the upcoming NBA season. But once the Sixers posted a photo of a noticeably slimmer Embiid posing with his son, Arthur, fans took a collective sigh of relief.
At media day, Embiid confirmed that he’s dropped 25-30 pounds this offseason and might even shed more as the season progresses. His reasoning is simple: stay healthy for the playoffs. Embiid isn’t concerned with personal accolades anymore—it’s all about being available when it matters most.
Sixers President Daryl Morey echoed Embiid’s focus, stating the team will be smart with how they manage the MVP’s minutes this season. After all, everyone knows Embiid’s playoff history has been riddled with injuries, and this year the goal is to change that.
And while Embiid has won back-to-back scoring titles in the past, he made it clear he doesn’t want the offensive burden to fall solely on his shoulders anymore—especially with a player like Paul George now in the mix.
How will the 76ers utilize new addition Paul George?
Paul George’s arrival in Philadelphia brought excitement, but also a fair share of questions. Mainly: how will he fit next to two stars like Embiid and Maxey?
Fortunately, head coach Nick Nurse seems to have it figured out.
He said George’s two-way ability makes him incredibly versatile, and he’s excited to deploy him in various roles—whether it’s handling the ball, playing in the post, or being a spot-up shooter.
Nurse’s challenge is to maximize what George brings without stifling Embiid and Maxey’s natural games. But George has plenty of experience playing alongside other stars, from Kawhi Leonard to Russell Westbrook. He’s confident in his ability to blend in. In fact, he’s excited about the opportunity.
As George told the media, “This is the first time I’ve played with an elite point guard and big man at the same time. We don’t have to force anything. It’s a natural flow.”
That natural flow will be key if the 76ers want to make a deep run this season.
The 76ers’ primary focus is chemistry development
Though adding George was the offseason’s headline move, he wasn’t the only new face in town. The Sixers made eight new additions, and that means team chemistry is a work in progress. Nick Nurse, who’s no stranger to mixing lineups, is focused on getting the new-look squad to gel.
Tyrese Maxey made it clear that the team’s only concern right now is themselves—they’re not worrying about where they stand against the rest of the league just yet. According to Adam Aaronson, the team is focused on building trust and understanding among the new players.
One area where that chemistry could really shine? On the wing. Kelly Oubre Jr. hyped up the Sixers’ depth at the wing position, proudly labeling himself, Paul George, and Caleb Martin as the team’s “plumbers,” ready to lock down on defense and do the dirty work. Oubre’s excitement about the defensive versatility shows just how confident this group is about playing together.
As for Caleb Martin, who will likely slot in as the starting power forward, he’s ready to embrace position-less basketball. Standing at 6’6″, some may question his fit as a traditional four, but Martin isn’t sweating it.
The next step for this revamped squad? Training camp. The Sixers will head to Atlantis Paradise Island in the Bahamas to start their preparations for the season. It’s an ideal setting for a team that’s hoping to bond quickly and make a run at the title.
With Embiid, Maxey, and George leading the charge—and a fresh supporting cast behind them—the Sixers are heading into this season with a lot to prove. But if media day is any indication, they’re ready for the challenge. Championship hopes are alive and well in Philly, and this team looks locked in on making them a reality.
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Mandatory Credit: (Philadelphia 76ers)
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