Just as optimism was returning for Joel Embiid and the Philadelphia 76ers ahead of the new season, life off the court took a heartbreaking turn. While Embiid continues his steady recovery from injury and eyes a long-awaited return to play, his family has been struck by a deeply personal loss.

Anne de Paula, the Brazilian model and wife of Joel Embiid, shared emotional posts on Instagram mourning the death of her longtime manager and mentor, Serginho. Her message revealed the depth of their bond and the immense impact he had on her career.

In her first story, she wrote, “Rest in peace Serginho🥲 my manager, agent, and who believed in me from day 1 passed away today. 16 years working together. You will be forever missed. If it weren’t for him, I probably wouldn’t be where I am today🕊️🙏🏼 forever in my ❤.”

Born in Rio de Janeiro, Anne began modeling as a teenager after Serginho discovered her at the age of 13/14. He guided her through the early stages of her career, convincing her parents to support her dream. Reflecting on that moment, she wrote, “He discovered me at 13/14 yo and guided me around the world, convinced my parents that I could be a model, and here I am because of him. What an agent, what an angel! Sad news. Love forever🙏🏼🙏🏼”

In another story, Anne shared a nostalgic photo and memory from the very start of her journey: “13-year-old me, when he met and said ‘hey, you will be a model and you will travel the world, starting with Paris’  and it all actually happened! 🙏🏼😢”

Her heartfelt words capture the profound connection she shared with her mentor, whose guidance gave her the platform to succeed in the global fashion industry.

Anne de Paula first rose to prominence after winning the Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Model Search in 2017, making her debut in the magazine’s 2018 issue. She has since appeared in multiple SI Swimsuit editions, traveling to destinations such as Anguilla, Nevis, Kenya, and the Dominican Republic. Over the years, she has also modeled for major fashion brands including Victoria’s Secret, H&M, and GAP.

Joel Embiid edges closer to return as recovery gains momentum

As Anne grieves this personal loss, Embiid is working his way back from the left knee meniscus injury he suffered in February 2025, a setback that required surgery and sidelined him for the latter part of the regular season. Before the injury, he was averaging an MVP-caliber 34.7 points, 11.2 rebounds, and 5.6 assists per game in the 2023-24 regular season, continuing his dominance from his MVP campaign.

After months of rehabilitation and conditioning, optimism is finally building within the Sixers’ camp. Embiid was recently spotted competing in post-practice 1-on-1 battles at the team’s facility in Camden, New Jersey, facing off against teammates including Kelly Oubre Jr., Paul George, Tyrese Maxey, and rookie VJ Edgecombe.

Just days earlier, he also participated in a scrimmage with the Delaware Blue Coats, signaling a strong step forward in his recovery. Oubre’s attempt to guard him ended with a simple, effortless layup, a glimpse of Embiid returning to his dominant self.

Head coach Nick Nurse offered a cautiously optimistic update on his star center’s status: “I think there’s some chance  I don’t think we’re there yet, it’s a little early in the week to decide. I think it still could go either way. We’ve got some thresholds to get over before we get to that point.”

Nurse added, “From all accounts, he responded fine. He was in practice today, looking good, feeling good. He just did the beginning parts of practice today, but that’s as planned.”

While his preseason debut against the Minnesota Timberwolves remains uncertain, reports suggest Embiid could return by next Wednesday, when the Sixers open their season against the Boston Celtics.

For Philadelphia fans, the sight of Joel Embiid back in action, especially after months of absence and adversity, would be a welcome reminder of his resilience, both on and off the court.