Byron Nelson
In a year filled with accolades and achievements, NBA superstar Joel Embiid had one of the most significant moments of his life on Saturday afternoon. The 2023 NBA MVP and Philadelphia 76ers star tied the knot with his longtime partner, Anne De Paula, in a picturesque wedding ceremony in Southampton.
The couple, who had been together for several years, celebrated their special day on Cryder Beach, capturing beautiful portraits together before heading to a church ceremony where they exchanged their vows.
Rumors about Embiid’s relationship with the stunning Sports Illustrated model first surfaced in 2018, and they were later confirmed, delighting fans who admired the couple’s chemistry and affection for each other. Throughout Embiid’s career, de Paula has been a constant source of support, even during some of his toughest moments in the league.
One such moment was during the 2019 Eastern Conference finals when the Toronto Raptors eliminated the 76ers with a heart-stopping buzzer-beater by Kawhi Leonard. Despite the heartbreak, de Paula stood by her partner, offering comfort and encouragement during the challenging time.
The love between Embiid and de Paula has grown deeper with the arrival of their son, Arthur, who was born on September 16, 2020. In an interview with ESPN in 2021, de Paula gushed about their beautiful bond, saying, “When Arthur sees him, there is no one else in the room. It is the most beautiful thing ever.”
While the wedding ceremony took place on Long Island, it is not the first time that Embiid has been connected to New York in 2023. Earlier in the offseason, the towering 7-foot center expressed his burning desire to win an NBA championship, regardless of the location. He made it clear that winning a title was his ultimate goal, even if it meant leaving Philadelphia for another team.
These comments sparked speculation about potential destinations, and ESPN’s Zach Lowe and Dave McMenamin teased the possibility of Embiid teaming up with the New York Knicks. There had been murmurs about the connection between Embiid and the Knicks’ president, Leon Rose, adding fuel to the rumors.
However, despite the chatter about his future in the league, Embiid’s wedding day reminded fans that beyond basketball, he is also cherishing personal milestones. The NBA championship ring may still elude him, but the ring he placed on his finger during Saturday’s ceremony is a symbol of love and commitment.
Joel Embiid’s big year just got even bigger with the celebration of his marriage to Anne de Paula. As the 2023 NBA MVP, he has proven himself on the basketball court, but it’s the love and support of his partner and the joy of fatherhood that make this year truly special for the Philadelphia 76ers star. As fans eagerly await the upcoming NBA season, they also join in celebrating this momentous occasion in Embiid’s life, wishing him and Anne de Paula a lifetime of happiness together.
