Cameroonian-born NBA sensation Joël Embiid has etched his name in basketball history, becoming the ninth player to achieve the remarkable feat of scoring 70 points in a single game. Joining an elite group that includes David Robinson, David Thompson, Elgin Baylor, Donovan Mitchell, Devin Booker, and Damian Lillard, Embiid’s stellar performance occurred during a matchup against the San Antonio Spurs on Monday, January 22, 2023.
Reports indicate that Joel Embiid reached the 70-point milestone in less than 37 minutes of play, showcasing an extraordinary scoring prowess. His per 36-minute average of 37.4 points not only solidifies his place among the greats but also establishes a new NBA record. Following this outstanding display, Embiid’s season average stands at an impressive 36.1 points in just 34.3 minutes, boasting a rate of 38.0 per 36.
Reflecting on his historic achievement, Joel Embiid expressed his gratitude, stating, “It was just a great night. I had it going. I mentioned a few times that a lot of teammates are extremely unselfish, and they just kept giving me the ball, and I just finished it.” He acknowledged the inevitability of success when taking numerous shots, emphasizing, “But when you’re shooting that many shots, which I never thought I would be taking that many shots in my life, you’re going to make some, and you’re going to have a big night.”
Adding to his list of accolades, President Paul Biya of Cameroon, in a decree announced on November 21, 2023, elevated Joel Embiid, among other notable individuals achieving international recognition, to the prestigious rank of Commander of the Order of Valour. President Biya conveyed in the release, “The Grand Chancellor of National Orders is responsible for the execution of this decree, which will be duly registered and published in both French and English in the Official Journal.”
Born in Yaoundé and holding dual French citizenship, Joel Embiid spent much of his youth in the United States. Despite receiving offers from Cameroon and France, he opted to represent the US in basketball, citing Cameroon’s absence from international competitions as a key factor in his decision. Embiid’s latest accomplishment adds to his already impressive list of achievements as a professional basketball player in the United States.
