Joel Embiid Gets Ultimate Respect From DeMarcus Cousins

Joel Embiid got a huge compliment from former NBA star DeMarcus Cousins. During a social media game, Cousins was told to only speak when he heard a name of a player he believes he isn't better than. He went roughly 20 seconds without saying a word. When he finally spoke, it was to stop at Embiid's name.

Cousins participated in a social media game where he had to stay silent unless he heard a player he thinks he's not better than. The list included Brook Lopez, Al Jefferson, Al Horford, Marc Gasol, LaMarcus Aldridge, Dwight Howard, Karl-Anthony Towns, and Patrick Ewing. He didn't speak for any of them.

But when Joel Embiid's name was called, Cousins immediately reacted. "Stop right there," he said. "I'll give it to Joel." That was the only name that made him speak up.

Cousins was a dominant center in his prime. He averaged 19.6 points and 10.2 rebounds over 654 NBA games. He made four All-Star teams and two All-NBA squads. For him to single out Embiid as the one player he won't claim to be better than carries real weight.

Embiid has built a resume that commands that respect. Over a decade in the league, he's averaged 27.6 points and 10.8 rebounds per game. He's a seven-time All-Star, five-time All-NBA selection, and the 2023 NBA MVP. He's also won two scoring titles.

Embiid is widely considered one of the best centers of his generation. His combination of size, skill, and defensive impact sets him apart. Cousins, who played against many elite bigs, essentially ranked Embiid above everyone else on that list.

That list included Hall of Fame-caliber players like Dwight Howard and Patrick Ewing. It also included current stars like Karl-Anthony Towns. For Cousins to give Embiid that nod shows how highly he rates the 76ers star.

Embiid is currently on the Philadelphia 76ers' injury report with a new ailment. The team hasn't released full details yet. But when healthy, Embiid remains one of the most unstoppable forces in the NBA. He's a 50% shooter from the field and hits 33.9% of his threes.

His career has been plagued by injuries, but his production hasn't slipped. He's still a top MVP candidate when he plays. And now he's got a stamp of approval from one of the best centers of the 2010s.