A plan to prevent a New York Knicks crowd takeover in South Philadelphia for Game 3 has failed.
Joel Embiid sent a strong message to Philadelphia 76ers fans ahead of the series, making it clear that the crowd should favor the home team overwhelmingly.
Once again, Knicks supporters flooded the stands and the halls of the Xfinity Mobile Arena for Game 3, and the Sixers suffered a loss to drop to 0-3.
How Did Joel Embiid Feel About The Crowd Takeover?
GettyPHILADELPHIA, PENNSYLVANIA – JANUARY 22: Joel Embiid #21 of the Philadelphia 76ers looks on during a game against the Houston Rockets at Xfinity Mobile Arena on January 22, 2026 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. 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 Emilee Chinn/Getty Images)
Brushed it off.
“I don’t know,” Embiid told reporters. “I was focused on the game. I wasn’t really paying attention.”
The Sixers didn’t do the situation any favors. As the Knicks controlled the second half, there wasn’t really a point where the 76ers could turn the tables with gaining the majority support throughout the final two quarters.
While the game was far from the blowout it was the last time Embiid played the Knicks, New York still comfortably secured the Game 3 victory with a score of 108-94.
The Sixers Are In A Bad Spot
GettyBOSTON, MASSACHUSETTS – APRIL 28: Joel Embiid #21 of the Philadelphia 76ers reacts against the Boston Celtics during the second quarter in Game Five of the First Round of the NBA Eastern Conference Playoff at TD Garden on April 28, 2026 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 Maddie Meyer/Getty Images)
History says the 76ers aren’t going to make it to the Eastern Conference Finals. No team has managed to complete a 0-3 comeback.
With Game 4 set to be played in South Philadelphia, the city can assume there will be a swarm of Knicks fans once again. The New York Knicks are teeing up a potential sweep.
The playoffs have been a good fight for the 76ers, who were doubted as early as Game 1 against the Boston Celtics in the first round. They formed an impressive 1-3 comeback. However, the 76ers haven’t been able to handle the Knicks through three games. They are in a bad spot, and could see their season end before the start of next week.
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