Sixers: Mo Bamba insists he can play alongside Joel Embiid

Mo Bamba is set to play alongside his mentor. The 25-year-old Ivorian centre is now a Philadelphia player, which will bring him into closer contact with Joel Embiid. The giant, standing 2 metres 13 centimetres tall, will therefore be able to draw inspiration from the 2023 MVP. Embiid also played a key part in his arrival. "Before and during free agency, we talked a bit and he said to me: 'Listen, this may sound a bit crazy because we often play against each other, but I think the Sixers would be a good choice for you'," says the former Orlando man.

Excited by the prospect, Mo Bamba said yes. He wants to find out "exactly what it will look like to play together. But I think we can play together because Jo, believe it or not, I don't think he really has a position," he said, before adding: "He's such a threat on offence. He's a dominant force, it can open things up for others, and with the way I've developed my game to become a stretch five or a stretch four, I think there's a good chance we'll play together." A bold claim, given that Embiid has always played at centre, like him. Unless the Ivorian is prepared to adapt.

Indeed, Mo Bamba comes off two seasons shooting 38% from three-point range, while Embiid finished last season at 33% from beyond the arc. Whatever happens, Bamba will learn from his elder. "He talked to me about his experience in the league and what has happened, and he's really someone it's easy to learn from and stay with (…). The whole NBA is moving in the same direction, towards a desire to win. It's a place where I can play an important role in winning," explains the former Lakers player.