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Joel Embiid shows immediate impact in Game 3, but Philadelphia 76ers still have 'a long way to go'

PHILADELPHIA -- The Phantom of the Process is back -- and, for the Philadelphia 76ers, not a moment too soon.

Joel Embiid returned after missing more than a week with a facial fracture and concussion to play 36 minutes, score 18 points and grab 11 rebounds and -- most importantly -- leading his 76ers to a 99-79 victory over the Miami Heat in Game 3 of this Eastern Conference semifinal, pulling Philadelphia back into the series after dropping the opening two games.

"No," Embiid said, when asked if there was ever a moment when he thought he wouldn't return to the series.