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Mike Breen apologized Wednesday after LeBron James publicly denied a story about a training camp exchange involving Philadelphia 76ers teammate Joel Embiid. The veteran play-by-play announcer said he was disappointed by how his comments were interpreted and acknowledged that the report created an unwanted distraction around the team.
The controversy began during Philadelphia’s preseason game against the New York Knicks on Monday. While calling the broadcast for MSG Networks, Breen said he had heard that Embiid arrived a couple of minutes late to practice and that James “let him hear it.” Breen presented the anecdote as evidence of James’ early leadership with his new team.
Mike Breen Apologizes After LeBron James Rejects Report
According to ESPN, Breen told the network that his intention was to praise James for helping establish professionalism and accountability within the 76ers’ locker room. He said the identity of the player involved was not important to him when he shared the story.
“I’m so disappointed how the story was interpreted,” Breen said. “The whole intent was praising LeBron for already having an impact on the team’s professionalism and accountability, even something so benign as a player getting on the court for practice a minute or two late.”
James disputed the account Tuesday in an Instagram post, writing: “He ain’t been late so stop the lies.” The direct response quickly shifted attention away from Philadelphia’s preseason preparations and toward the accuracy of the broadcast report.
Breen said he accepted James’ version of events and apologized for repeating the story.
“I don’t know why the person who told me the story would make it up, but if LeBron says it never happened then I believe him and apologize for putting it out there,” Breen told ESPN.
Why the Joel Embiid Detail Created Extra Attention
Breen explained that he received the information from “someone I trust” and believed it would offer viewers an interesting look at the Sixers’ developing team culture. However, the reference to Embiid carried additional weight because of previous concerns about the star center’s availability, preparation and relationship with teammates.
Two seasons ago, during Philadelphia’s difficult 2-11 start, ESPN reported that teammates had challenged Embiid over being late “for everything” as the group attempted to recover. That earlier context made the new anecdote appear more significant than Breen intended.
“For me, the fact that the teammate was Joel was meaningless,” Breen said. “In hindsight, I should have realized the fact that it was Joel is what made it a story. I’ve always been a huge fan of Joel and feel awful that it put the focus on him the way that it did.”
Nick Nurse Defends Embiid as Sixers Manage Distraction
Philadelphia coach Nick Nurse said he only became aware of the situation after Wednesday’s practice. He emphasized that Embiid had been working hard and performing well during training camp.
“Joel has been excellent,” Nurse said. “He’s been on the practice floor. He’s worked really hard and he’s been playing great. So, I’m just surprised something like that has come out.”
Nurse also urged the team to manage outside noise as the regular season approaches. Neither James, Embiid nor Tyrese Maxey played in Philadelphia’s 120-97 preseason victory over New York, but Nurse said the intended regular-season rotation would be tested in two of the team’s final three exhibition games.
- Philadelphia defeated New York 120-97 in Monday’s preseason opener.
- James denied the reported interaction in an Instagram post Tuesday.
- Breen apologized Wednesday and said he believed James’ account.
- Nurse said Embiid has been healthy, engaged and productive in practice.
Sixers Face Center-Depth Challenge Before Regular Season
The Sixers’ immediate basketball concerns extend beyond the broadcast controversy. Backup center Ariel Hukporti underwent season-ending right Achilles surgery Tuesday, leaving Philadelphia with fewer traditional options behind Embiid.
Nurse identified James and Dean Wade as candidates to play small-ball center. Jabari Walker and Dominick Barlow could also receive minutes in that role. Second-year center Adem Bona, who began training camp with a sprained left foot, returned to on-court workouts Wednesday and may help provide additional depth.
Despite Hukporti’s injury, Nurse said the team does not currently plan to add another center. Philadelphia is expected to use its existing group unless circumstances change.
The Sixers were scheduled to continue their preseason Thursday against the Brooklyn Nets, with Nurse indicating that most of the team’s key players could see action. For now, the organization is attempting to keep its focus on preparation, health and the development of its new-look lineup featuring James, Embiid and Maxey.
Frequently Asked Questions About Mike Breen
Why did Mike Breen apologize?
Mike Breen apologized after LeBron James denied a story suggesting he had confronted Joel Embiid for arriving late to practice. Breen said he believed James’ account and regretted the distraction.
What did LeBron James say about the report?
James rejected the story in an Instagram post, writing, “He ain’t been late so stop the lies.”
What was Joel Embiid’s reaction?
The report does not include a public response from Embiid. Nick Nurse defended him, saying the center had been working hard and playing well during training camp.
Did the controversy affect the 76ers’ preseason plans?
Nurse said the team would continue preparing for the regular season and planned to use its intended rotation in upcoming preseason games.
Who will replace Ariel Hukporti?
Philadelphia may use James, Dean Wade, Jabari Walker and Dominick Barlow at small-ball center, while Adem Bona can provide traditional center minutes behind Embiid.
