While tanking has continued to be a controversial topic in the NBA, the Philadelphia 76ers proved that it indeed pays off. They’ve also made a name for themselves the past two years as a very patient franchise, especially with their players who have suffered injuries even before playing their first game in the league. It has prompted them to come up with their now famous mantra of “Trust the Process,” with Joel Embiid as its poster child.

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Oklahoma City Thunder guard Andre Roberson acknowledges it as something that has worked well for the 7-foot center and his team. He even dropped the line and gave a shoutout to Embiid during a recent interview, which goes to show that he’s updated with what’s going on with the Sixers.

After missing his first two years in the NBA, Joel Embiid finally made his debut last season. Despite only suiting up for 31 games, he played at a very high level and was able to showcase his impressive skill set on both ends of the floor. They finished with the most wins they’ve had the past four years, which gave their fans more reason to believe that their team can make a lot of noise in the Eastern Conference this season.

It may have taken a long time for the Sixers to once again have a formidable lineup, but “The Process” is living proof that if a plan is followed to a T, it could eventually pay dividends for a rebuilding team. It just remains to be seen now if they can live up to expectations, and finally make a postseason appearance for the first time in five years.

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But for Andre Roberson and the Thunder, trusting the process can still be worth it, but it doesn't have to be in the same way that Sam Hinkie envisioned. Besides, it's a universal concept anyway.