HOUSTON — Joel Embiid underwent an appendectomy in Houston on Thursday after being diagnosed with appendicitis overnight, the Philadelphia 76ers said.
The team said the surgery was completed while the Philadelphia 76ers were playing the Houston Rockets.
Head coach Nick Nurse said Embiid felt fine during practice on Wednesday but reported feeling unwell in the early hours of Thursday morning. He said team staff learned of the diagnosis after Embiid underwent medical scans.
Nurse said doctors decided to perform surgery in Houston after confirming appendicitis. He did not provide a timeline for Embiid’s return, but said the injury presents a setback for the team’s postseason plans.
Embiid has played in 38 games this season and has missed multiple games to manage knee-related injuries. He averages 26.9 points and 7.7 rebounds per game.
The 76ers entered Thursday in eighth place in the NBA Eastern Conference, in position for a play-in tournament spot.
