It happened just a few minutes into the game as Claxton got behind Embiid to throw down a one-handed alley oop slam dunk to give the Nets a 6-4 lead. As Claxton was bracing himself to stay on his feet, Embiid fell to the ground in front of him. As Claxton stared him down and stepped over him, Embiid retaliated by kicking him between the legs.
Claxton went down for a moment, but walked off the court with no sign of injury. The officials reviewed the play and gave Embiid a flagrant 1, which was an easy call.
Embiid and Claxton have become arch rivals with their multiple meetings during the regular season. We recall Claxton rejecting Embiid on a dunk attempt back in January.
At halftime, the Sixers have a 58-47 lead in the game and look to take a commanding 3-0 lead in the series. This would mean that despite Claxton having his share of success in this matchup, it appears that Embiid will have the last laugh.
UPDATE: The Nets put up a good fight, taking the lead in the third quarter and holding on for most of the fourth quarter. A lot of anxious moments ensued as Claxton and Sixers superstar James Harden were ejected in the fourth quarter. However, the Sixers took the lead back in the final minutes and hung on to win 102-97.
Moonlighting as a blogger to pursue my interest and enjoyment of sports. Former high school and Division I athlete (now a "retired" family man) that loves watching and discussing all sports. Follow me on Twitter (@HoldoutSports) and like Holdout Sports on Facebook.
