An NBA spokesperson confirmed that the league is investigating a reported confrontation between Philadelphia 76ers star Joel Embiid and a local columnist.

According to an ESPN report, the 2022-23 MVP was getting closer to that Philadelphia InvestigatorsMarcus Hayes talks about something he wrote.

The offensive passage from Hayes' column, which has since been removed from online versions after it was first published on October 23, referred to Embiid's younger brother and son, according to PhillyVoice's Adam Aaronson.

“Joel Embiid continually points out that the birth of his son Arthur was the most important turning point in his basketball career,” Hayes wrote (via Aaronson). “He often says he wants to be great, to leave a legacy for the boy named after his little brother, who tragically died in a car accident when Embiid was in his first year as a 76er. Well, to be great.” At work, you first have to show up for work. In fact, Embiid was great.

According to ESPN, Embiid approached Hayes in the locker room after last Saturday's 124-107 loss to the Memphis Grizzlies. He told the columnist that “you'll see what I'll do to you” if Hayes referred to his brother or son again.

The argument continued, with Embiid reportedly “pushing Hayes on the shoulder while the team's public relations chief intervened.” Aaronson added that “Embiid didn't throw or attempt a punch.”

A day before the incident, the seven-time All-Star vented his frustration over the general message that he would rather not play than deal with a lingering knee problem. He specifically called Hayes even though the columnist wasn't there.

The NBA investigated the matter and ultimately fined the Sixers $100,000 for public comments from head coach Nick Nurse and president of basketball operations Daryl Morey regarding Embiid's health. However, the league determined that the center is suffering from a legitimate “left knee complaint” that is preventing him from playing.

The Sixers got off to a 1-4 start with both Embiid and Paul George unavailable. George is expected to make his first appearance Monday night against the Phoenix Suns.