Celtics 76ers Basketball

Matt Slocum - AP
Apr 26, 2026
Apr 26, 2026 Updated May 3, 2026

Philadelphia 76ers' Joel Embiid reacts during the first half of Game 4 against the Boston Celtics in a first-round NBA basketball playoffs series Sunday, April 26, 2026, in Philadelphia.
Matt Slocum - AP

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Embiid’s gutsy return after appendectomy falls flat as Celtics rout 76ers for 3-1 series lead

PHILADELPHIA (AP) — Joel Embiid's surprise return only 17 days after having an appendectomy …

Joel Embiid made a gutsy return from an appendectomy. The 76ers are still in trouble against Boston

Joel Embiid thought he had a stomach bug during the Philadelphia 76ers' road trip in Texas. It turned out to be appendicitis, leading to an appendectomy on April 9. Embiid missed key games, including the Sixers' first three games in their first-round playoff series against the Boston Celtics. He returned 17 days after surgery, scoring 26 points in a 128-96 loss on Sunday. The Sixers trail the series 3-1. Despite Embiid's efforts, the team struggled, with Boston dominating in rebounds and 3-pointers. Coach Nick Nurse and team president Daryl Morey face pressure as the Sixers aim to recover in the series.