LOS ANGELES - Joel Embiid isn't just going to play Sunday in the NBA All-Star Game. He is aiming to be named Most Valuable Player.
"On Sunday, I expect to go harder," Embiid said following the Mtn Dew Kickstart Rising Stars game Friday. "I'm going for that MVP. Guys better make sure they find because I'm looking to have a good game."
Embiid is participating in three days of events, including the Taco Bell Skills Challenge on Saturday. His availability had been in question after he missed Wednesday's game against the Heat because of right ankle soreness. That night, Brett Brown said the decision would be based on a collaboration between Embiid and the Sixers' medical staff.
"The other night, my ankle didn't feel so good," Embiid said Saturday morning. "I've been pushing in the previous games, so it was a little bit [sore]. But the last two days it's been feeling better. But there was never really a thought about missing out on any of these events. It's my first time, so I'm going to have fun."
Embiid took it easy Friday, clocking the least amount of minutes (8:41) of the 20 participants. He scored five points (2 for 6 from the field, 1 for 4 from three) and pulled down two rebounds.
The Sixers big man has much more than that to show. He is averaging 23.7 points, 11.1 rebounds and 1.8 blocks per game. He plans to double that in order to accomplish his goal of MVP honors.
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"Score about 40 points and 20 rebounds," Embiid outlined. "I've gotten close before, so it's possible."
Embiid was victorious on night one of his competitions. Team World beat Team USA, 155-124. His teammates from the Sixers chipped in for the victory. Dario Saric scored 18 points with five rebounds. Ben Simmons recorded an 11-point, 13-assist double-double along with six rebounds and four steals.
Next up for Embiid is the skills challenge on Saturday before he steps into the starting lineup for Team Stephen on Sunday. With the way he has been playing in less than two full seasons, Embiid is likely to be a familiar face at All-Star weekend. He is already thinking about which other events he'd like to showcase his versatile skills.
"At some point in my career I want to do everything," Embiid said. "The dunk contest, that's a long, long shot, although I've got bounce. I can jump, but it doesn't look as good because I'm too tall. But the three-point contest in the future, definitely, I've got to do that."
