Mike Breen Apologizes After LeBron James Refutes Joel Embiid Training Camp Story

Broadcaster Mike Breen apologized on Wednesday for a story he shared during the 76ers' 120-97 preseason win over the Knicks, which LeBron James later disputed.

Broadcaster Mike Breen issued an apology on Wednesday following a dispute over a story he shared during the Philadelphia 76ers' 120-97 preseason victory against the New York Knicks. During the fourth quarter of Monday's game, Breen reported that LeBron James had "let him hear it" after Joel Embiid arrived a few minutes late to a training camp practice. James refuted the account on Instagram Tuesday, stating, "He ain't been late so stop the lies."

Breen told ESPN he received the information from a trusted source and intended to highlight James' leadership and accountability. Following James' denial, Breen stated he believed the player and apologized for the focus the story placed on Embiid. Sixers coach Nick Nurse addressed the situation after Wednesday's practice, noting that Embiid has been in great shape and has worked hard on the practice floor.

Neither James, Embiid, nor Tyrese Maxey played in the Monday game against New York. The 76ers are currently managing a frontcourt shortage after 7-foot center Ariel Hukporti underwent season-ending right Achilles surgery on Tuesday. Nurse identified 6-foot-9 players LeBron James and Dean Wade as candidates for small-ball center minutes, while second-year big man Adem Bona returned to on-court workouts Wednesday after recovering from a sprained left foot. Philadelphia travels to face the Brooklyn Nets on Thursday.