Super Confident Joel Embiid Claims He Can Be Shaquille O’Neal Whenever He Wants: “I Can Be Michael Jordan or Kobe Bryant”

Ever since the absence of Ben Simmons this season, Joel Embiid has proven himself to be the franchise centerpiece for the Philadelphia 76ers. Embiid’s solid performances have helped the Sixers reap benefits this season as they currently occupy 5th place in the Eastern Conference.

In their most recent matchup, the 76ers secured a win against the Orlando Magic behind a 50 point performance by  Embiid.

What followed was a post-match interview where Embiid claimed he could be Shaquille O’Neal, Dirk Nowitzki, Michael Jordan, or Kobe Bryant whenever he wished.

WATCH THIS STORY: LeBron James Leaving Cavs For Miami Heat, Kevin Durant Ditching OKC For Golden State and Other Trades that Shook the NBA

Embiid’s Post Match Interview Comments

Prior to the game against the Magic, Sixers’ guard – Tyrese Maxey questioned Embiid if he was going to play like Shaq or Dirk, to which Embiid responded, saying that he was going to play like himself.

It was after the game that Embiid explained to reporters what he meant by his response to Maxey.

“I said me because I mean at times, whenever I want, you know I’m able to be Shaq and whenever I want, I’m also able to be Dirk or Kobe or MJ or any guards, really,” said Embiid.

“Shooting off the dribble or pull-ups or ball-handling, just a combination of everything offensively. So I was OK tonight,” he added.

The Sixers’ star had also shared a video on Instagram that showed a similarity between his moves and those of Kobe Bryant and Michael Jordan.

To take things further, let’s look at a player comparison between Embiid and the aforementioned legends.

Joel Embiid and the Legends – A Player Comparison

Joel Embiid has proven himself to be a well-rounded star for the Sixers. His multi-faceted game is what brings him and his team plenty of success.

Looking at his career so far, Embiid is tied with Kobe at 3rd in terms of points per game among the four and also averages the 3rd highest assists per game. Added to this, he also averages the 2nd highest blocks per game and the 2nd highest three-point shooting percentage. Moreover, his rebounding ability ranks first among all four players.

READ MORE: Shaquille O’Neal Finally Reveals How the NBA Community Turned His Disagreements With Kobe Bryant Into a Feud: “I’m Not Going to Beat You Up..”

But, his resume isn’t as sound as the legends in terms of achievements due to the absence of MVP awards and championships that the legends have earned. However, he does have time on his side. At 27 and in his prime, the future is an open book waiting to be written. Only time will tell if the ‘Process’ will prevail.