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Joel Embiid Hypes Caleb Martin in Win vs. Celtics: 'He Hates Them as Much as I Do'

Doric SamDecember 26, 2024

BOSTON, MASSACHUSETTS - DECEMBER 25: Joel Embiid #21 of  reacts with Caleb Martin #16 of the Philadelphia 76ers after a game against the Boston Celtics during the fourth quarter at the the TD Garden on December 25, 2024 in Boston, Massachusetts. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Brian Fluharty/Getty Images)
Brian Fluharty/Getty Images

After making a career-high seven three-pointers to help lead the Philadelphia 76ers to an upset win over the Boston Celtics on Christmas Day, swingman Caleb Martin received some high praise from star center Joel Embiid.

While speaking to reporters after the Sixers' 118-114 win, Embiid hyped Martin for bringing some extra fire against the Celtics.

"He's playing against Boston. He hates them as much as I do," Embiid said.

Ky Carlin @Ky_Carlin

Joel Embiid on Caleb Martin's big night: "He's playing against Boston. He hates them as much as I do." <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Sixers?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Sixers</a> <a href="https://t.co/3ZwNYeaPFo">pic.twitter.com/3ZwNYeaPFo</a>

Martin shot 7-of-9 from beyond the arc and finished with 23 points to help support Embiid, who had 27 points and nine rebounds, as well as star point guard Tyrese Maxey, who led the way for Philadelphia with 33 points and 12 assists.

Embiid added that he thinks Martin is at his best when he lets his natural instincts take over, and he hopes to see more of that from him going forward.

"He was great. I like when he's not thinking about it," Embiid said. "Tonight, he was just not thinking about it. ... Keep doing it with confidence."

The Sixers (11-17) will be seeking their third straight win when they face the Utah Jazz (7-21) on Saturday.