After arriving in Abu Dhabi on Monday, the Sixers participated in a local youth development program that has been an annual event featured in the NBA's collaboration with Abu Dhabi's Department of Culture and Tourism.
This marks the fourth consecutive year that the NBA has brought two teams to play preseason games in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) capital, following the multi-year deal between the league and the Department of Culture and Tourism.
The Sixers took a moment from their preparation for their upcoming preseason game against the New York Knicks and joined the clinic as guest coaches.
From Joel Embiid, Tyrese Maxey, and Paul George to rookies VJ Edgecombe and Johni Broome and everyone in between, the Sixers helped instruct the kids through various drills over the course of an hour-long clinic.
"Giving back to the community, especially for me, means a lot," Embiid told NBA Cares. "Being from Africa, having seen a lot of struggle growing up, that's always been the mindset. So I'm excited to be here and, like I said, giving back is huge. I'm happy to be here."
Embiid has a long history of community work, like with The Arthur Embiid & Angels Foundation, established by Embiid and his family in honor of Embiid's younger brother, who tragically died in October of 2014.
The foundation contributes to charitable and philanthropic efforts in Cameroon and the surrounding region, with an effort placed on expanding opportunity and access to sports and education.
Then there's Embiid's Miniature Géant Studio, which he launched in 2023. The studio aims to highlighting individuals who have pursued nontraditional avenues to success by producing their stories across multimedia channels, including unscripted, scripted, audio, and branded material. The studio's ultimate goal is to "inspire the next Joel Embiid, captivating global audiences and inspiring them to chase their dreams."
The Sixers will next return to preparation as they will face off against the Knicks later this week. The first matchup is set for Thursday, Oct. 2, at 12 p.m. EST, and the second on Saturday, Oct. 4, at 11 a.m. EST.
