Joel Embiid Compares Sixers' Fan Favorite to Two Superstars

Philadelphia 76ers rookie Ricky Council lands major praise from Joel Embiid.

Apr 7, 2024; San Antonio, Texas, USA; Philadelphia 76ers guard Ricky Council IV (16) goes in for a / Daniel Dunn-USA TODAY Sports

For a good portion of this season, the Philadelphia 76ers have gone through a flurry of injuries. With the roster being depleted for stretches, it opened the door for guys on the end of the bench to play more. Among those who has made the most of this opportunity is two-way player Ricky Council IV.

Council has appeared in 30 games for the Sixers this season. In that time, he is averaging 5.7 PPG on 48.2% shooting from the field and 35.5% from beyond the arc. Council played a crucial role off the bench in the Sixers’ double-OT thriller against the Spurs Sunday. He posted a stat line of 11 points, two rebounds, three assists, and four steals.

During the second overtime period, Council pulled off an impressive play around the rim. He managed to wrap around Victor Wembanyama to a wide-open Nic Batum in the corner. The veteran forward knocked down a big three to help seal a win for the Sixers.

VOILA. pic.twitter.com/0mnh8iSWAm

— Philadelphia 76ers (@sixers) April 8, 2024

When talking about the play, Council opened up on what Joel Embiid told him in the huddle that night. He told the young guard/forward that Luka Doncic and LeBron James are the only other players who could make that kind of play.

“I will remember the pass,” Council said. “Joel just came in here and said only three people can make that pass in the league. He said LeBron, Luka, and me. So I’m like, ok, I’ll take that!”

As the regular season comes to a close, the Sixers have a big decision to make regarding Council. For him to be available for the postseason, he’ll have to be signed to a standard NBA contract before Sunday.