NBA

Explaining Joel Embiid’s raunchy celebration at 2024 Paris Olympics

By Bhavya Rai

Joel Embiid is known for his playful antics and distinctive personality in the NBA. From his playful banter on X (formerly Twitter) to his competitive spirit in video games and on the court, the MVP has a knack for entertaining fans. Recently, he’s been using the DX chop, a celebration borrowed from WWE, to add flair to his game-day performances.

The DX chop, a move popularized by the WWE’s D-Generation X (DX), is a flashy and somewhat provocative gesture that has landed Embiid in trouble with fines. Despite this, the 7-foot center has continued to use it, even taking it to the 2024 Summer Olympics in Paris. He showcased the move during a game against Brazil in the knockout round, using it after a big play in the second quarter.

Here’s the video of Embiid’s celebration in Paris and some context about the move:

 

Joel Embiid DX Chop Video

Embiid’s DX chop came after an impressive and-one play against Brazil. At halftime, he had already scored 14 points, and the U.S. team was leading 63-36. Despite the NBA’s strict stance against the DX chop, Embiid didn’t receive a technical foul for the gesture. It’s possible that FIBA referees either overlooked it or chose to ignore it, but Brazil did not gain any advantage from it.

The U.S. team, having earned the top seed in the knockout stage, defeated Brazil and then Serbia in a thrilling semifinal. They are set to face France in the final.

 

Background on the DX Chop

The DX chop is a signature move from D-Generation X (DX), a famous WWE tag team known for their rebellious antics. The chop is both a celebration and a taunt, which is why it’s often frowned upon in professional sports, leading to fines for players who use it. Anthony Edwards, another NBA player, has also used the DX chop in games, and with both him and Embiid in Paris, there might be a chance to see them perform it together.

Kevin Durant, one of Embiid’s teammates, has previously criticized the celebration, calling it “trash.”

Here’s how Embiid responded to Durant’s comments:

Bhavya Rai

Bhavya is a former Student Editor. Bhavya is currently 20 years old and addresses herself as a passionate content writer because she feels connected to writing on a personal level. Bhavya is a journalist at Business Upturn.

You might also like More from author