Finding Joel Embiid's understudy has been a task the Philadelphia 76ers have never completed. Even with the array of talent on the roster, the franchise has a clear center depth problem. However, Adem Bona's performance during the Sixers' 93-106 loss to the Detroit Pistons proved that with a more mature mentality, the 23-year-old can be the impactful backup center this team desperately needs.
Bona's minutes were simple but effective
Embiid was unavailable for the final leg of the 76ers' first back-to-back of the season against the Pistons. It seems Nick Nurse will stagger Embiid and LeBron James in games like this to prevent injury without decimating the team's quality. The matchup with Detroit saw LeBron play minutes at center, while Dean Wade also assumed some of the defensive responsibility at the position.
This rotation choice was a clear indicator that Adem Bona doesn't have his head coach's full trust and could fall further down the pecking order when Tacko Fall returns to full fitness. From this moment onwards, Bona is fighting for his Sixers career. The UCLA alum doesn't need to be an offensive talisman, but make a positive impact defensively, set strong screens, and be a paint presence. Against the Pistons, Bona did this effectively.
In 25 minutes of action, Bona recorded 6 points, 13 rebounds, 3 blocks, and 1 steal, while shooting 60% from the floor. Most importantly, the enthusiastic center limited himself to just two fouls for the game -- highlighting an increased level of maturity. With his role simplified, Bona thrived. Nobody does or should expect him to dominate offensively, but he must contribute defensively.
According to Philly Voice beat writer Adam Aaronson, Nick Nurse stated his delight at Bona's cameo. "I was really happy with him. That's kind of the first game he's impacted, right? And I was really happy with the way he played.”
There is a reason the Sixers' head coach is glad his young big is making an impact. He knows how critical center depth will be as his team continues its championship hunt.
Philadelphia is desperate for Bona to be a success
The 76ers have put time into shaping Bona into the center they desperately crave, but he is yet to pay consistent dividends. Considering he was a second-round pick in 2024, some may argue he has already exceeded expectations. I would rally against that line of thinking. Bona has an athletic skill set that should make him successful in the NBA, while his defensive prowess can make him the perfect fit in South Philly.
To win a championship, the 76ers don't need 30+ points a night from the Turkish international; they need him to make the players around him better. Philadelphia has an abundance of offensive options who can carry the scoring load, but their rebounding ability leaves a lot to be desired. Bona's 13 rebounds against the Pistons suggest he can contribute to any lineup -- even one that fields Embiid at the same time.
Finding a backup center isn't just about finding the most talented option; it's about finding a reliable one who will be available for selection consistently. Of course, the player must be capable of making a positive contribution, but if they can't be on the floor throughout the season to build chemistry with their teammate and learn their role as a secondary option, the 76ers have no chance of clinching a championship.
The difference between the Philadelphia 76ers being a dangerous team and a serious championship competitor will be their ability to field an impactful backup for Joel Embiid. Adem Bona went a long way in proving he can be that player during the team's defeat against the Pistons. However, consistency is key. If he can reach his defensive potential, Bona can be a needle-mover for the Sixers.
Add us as a preferred source on Google