After the Knicks beat the 76ers in the NBA playoffs on Sunday, Joel Embiid leaned on his son, Arthur, for comfort. Arthur joined him at the post-game press conference, where Embiid faced tough questions about a season filled with injuries and, yet again, a disappointing playoff outcome.
However, Nick Wright, who hosts FS1’s “First Things First,” questioned the appropriateness of having children at such press conferences. “You really shouldn’t bring your kids after a loss,” he remarked on Monday. He acknowledged Embiid’s character as a devoted father but contrasted this moment with one from years past when he saw Steph Curry’s daughter, Riley. That situation felt different, he suggested, as it was a joyful celebration rather than a painful post-loss moment. “It’s almost like having your child there shields you from the uncomfortable questions that pressers are meant to address,” he noted.
Wright shared that he appreciates how today’s NBA highlights fatherhood and showcases players’ families, pointing out well-known kids of stars like Cannon Curry and Bronny James. Still, he feels that there should be limits in essential press situations.
“I’m not criticizing Embiid. He’s not the only one who does this. But I really don’t think it’s appropriate to have your child on your lap while discussing your team’s future after a season like this. I know some may disagree, but I stand by my opinion,” he concluded.
In the decisive Game 4, the Knicks triumphed over the 76ers with a score of 144-114, sealing the series. Embiid, who had missed Game 2 due to hip and ankle troubles, managed to score 24 points, hitting all eight of his field goal attempts in the final game.
The 76ers hadn’t been expected to move past the first round against Boston, making their early playoff exit even more disappointing. It’s worth noting that Philadelphia hasn’t reached the Eastern Conference finals since their defeat to the Lakers in the 2001 NBA Finals.
