Joel Embiid made history in the ‘22-’23 NBA season. Despite a disappointing exit from the playoffs, the 7” center bagged his first MVP award. The West-African native averaged a whopping 33.1 points along with 10.2 rebounds through a 66-game stretch. Even though these numbers declined during the playoff pressure, things can be seen as ‘on track’ for the Philadelphia 76ers.

The ever-lasting tale of ‘The Process’ displayed significant signs of blossoming this year. The belief system of the management and the city’s people have helped shape a promising journey for the organization – while extending it beyond just basketball. 

Joel Embiid and Tobias Harris were greeted by 500 local kids

The 76ers, the Eagles and Fanatics CEO Michael Rubin teamed up to distribute free licensed merchandise for underserved kids at Well Fargo Center. The stars from Philly came together on 27 June to cater an amazing time for 500 local kids. The event at Philly’s home ground was a part of the nationwide one-day event Merch-Madness led by Rubin himself. 

The arena reverberated with the cheers of kids on Tuesday as they indulged in activities with the NBA and NFL superstars. The children got to participate in several basketball and football drills. Along with the 76ers stars, the NFL’s Anthony Harris and renowned rapper Lil Baby were also present during the giveaway. 

An instance that stood out was when Joel Embiid couldn’t resist swatting the ball on a kid’s attempt for a bucket. Even the charity officials in the background cheer up as the MVP, known for his funny demeanor, creating a wholesome moment. One could assume he already misses the NBA action.

Embiid’s participation in the one-day event solidifies his will to create an impact off the court. He demonstrates his ability to create change by giving back to the community that has supported him since he set foot in the NBA.

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Acknowledging Embiid’s influence, Rubin said “We feel like we have a responsibility to give back and make a difference. The thing I learned today that I wasn’t expecting to see was how inspired these kids are because they get to shoot hoops with Joel, they get to see Tobi and Anthony. We’re just getting started. This is all about helping the underserved.”

Nearly 100,000 underserved families are impacted by the giveaways

In the first of many Merch Madness events, several athletes and celebrities of different streams participated. Jayson Tatum, Chris Paul, Tom Brady, Micah Parsons, Eli Manning, Russel Wilson, Mo Bamba, DJ Khaled, Lil Durk, Meek Mill and other famed names practiced their gratitude towards the community. 

The Fanatics organized the one-day event not only in Philadelphia but also across 30 states nationwide. Nearly 100,000 kids received licensed team/player jerseys, hats, hoodies, T-shirts and jackets, amounting to $20 million dollars of apparel. Rubin claims to reach a goal of donating $100 million worth of merchandise to more than 1 million youngsters.

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