about 3 hours ago

Rachel Nichols Compares Joel Embiid’s Mental Struggles to Tom Cruise in Top Gun

Discussing Philadelphia’s chances, Nichols praised their Finals ceiling but questioned Embiid’s mindset. “He was uncomfortable with the idea of playing and injuring himself further,” she said. Drawing a parallel to Top Gun, Nichols recalled Maverick hesitating in battle, likening it to Embiid in warmups. She noted repeated injuries and harsh criticism left him hesitant, but the Sixers need him fearless.