PHILADELPHIA — Philadelphia 76ers center Joel Embiid will have to wait even longer to make his season debut.
The injured Sixers star has been suspended three games by the National Basketball Association for shoving Philadelphia Inquirer columnist Marcus Hayes during a confrontation in the locker room over the weekend.
Embiid has missed the Sixers' first seven games while working to get his left knee ready for action. Hayes wrote a scathing column about Embiid's absence, and in early versions alluded to Embiid's late brother and young son, which angered the 7-foot, 280-pound veteran.
Hayes was in the Sixers' locker room after Saturday night's loss to the Memphis Grizzlies. Embiid confronted the reporter, and a verbal altercation ensued.
During the spat, Embiid allegedly shoved Hayes on the shoulder, according to other media members who were present.
The NBA announced it was investigating the incident, and on Tuesday rendered its verdict.
"Mutual respect is paramount to the relationship between players and media in the NBA," said Joe Dumars, NBA Executive Vice President, Head of Basketball Operations. "While we understand Joel was offended by the personal nature of the original version of the reporter's column, interactions must remain professional on both sides and can never turn physical."
Embiid's suspension will begin with the next regular season game for which he is eligible and able to play, Dumars added.
Embiid and the 76ers have not provided a firm timetable on when exactly that will be.
The Sixers are 1-6 so far with their star player sidelined.