Josh Hart on Joel Embiid’s Ticket Plea

Josh Hart has some tough news for Joel Embiid: it seems everyone will have to face the consequences.

Hart doubts that Embiid’s appeal to Philadelphia fans to refrain from selling tickets to New Yorkers will be effective. He recalls the 2024 playoff series when Knicks supporters transformed the Xfinity Mobile Arena—previously known as Wells Fargo Center—into something reminiscent of Madison Square Garden in their home city.

Embiid found the “MVP” chants directed at Jalen Brunson frustrating. “It’s a little disappointing, especially when Philadelphia is seen as a sports city,” Embiid remarked at the time.

Hart, speaking with the media as the Knicks readied themselves for Game 1 of the Eastern Conference semifinals against the 76ers, suggested, “It’s likely to happen again because Knicks fans travel well. They’re arguably the best fans in the NBA when it comes to attending games on the road. Plus, it might even be cheaper than going to the Garden.” His enthusiasm for Knicks fans was evident: “They’re passionate about Knicks basketball, and honestly, we thrive on their support.”

Following the 76ers’ comeback victory over the Celtics, Embiid urged fans to keep their tickets and prevent a repeat of the previous event. He noted that prices on the secondary market for games at the Garden are significantly higher than those for Xfinity Mobile Arena.

Embiid stated, “What happened the last time we faced the Knicks felt like Madison Square Garden East. We crave your support; this is bigger than any one individual. We need you all.” He added that although some fans might sell their tickets for financial reasons, it’s imperative that they show up for the home team: “I understand that money is tight for some. But we need your voices; we need you here.”

The 76ers are following a strategy similar to that used by the Pistons last year, which limited ticket sales to fans from the Detroit area. Their website now states that ticket orders from outside the Philadelphia metropolitan area will be canceled and refunded.

Yet, this restriction may not deter Knicks fans from snatching up tickets on secondary platforms. While that approach was successful in Detroit, it was a longer drive compared to the quick hour-and-a-half journey from New York to Philadelphia.

Hart pointed out the tenacity of New Yorkers: “They won’t back down. If they spot a good ticket deal, they’re going to grab it. Plus, let’s be honest; New Yorkers are incredibly passionate about the Knicks, and they’ll come out in droves to show their support.”