Zach Ciavolella (@ciavo.bsky.social)
HAMMER the Dodgers moneyline tomorrow
76ers beat reporter & editor for @phillysportsnet.bsky.social & @metrophilly.bsky.social | Occasional guest on @sportsradiowip.bsky.social Gave up the Bucks while God Jrue up the play like Holiday
1,848 followers 111 following 879 posts
view profile on Bluesky Phil Lewis (@phillewis.bsky.social) reposted
“Severance" actor Tramell Tillman has won the Emmy for outstanding supporting actor in a drama series. He is the first Black man ever to win the award #Emmys
Zach Ciavolella (@ciavo.bsky.social)
Going for two? In this economy? What is Manny Diaz thinking??
O.J. Spivey (@ojphilly.bsky.social) reposted
So, there have been threats at multiple HBCUs today. SMH.
Mark Schindler (@mgschindler.bsky.social) reposted
Caught up with Ashlon Jackson of @DukeWBB On her leadership, communication, and how she's grown alongside this program under Kara Lawson youtu.be/5kGsXCexEbI
Zach Ciavolella (@ciavo.bsky.social)
Kelly Oubre is back in the gym in his first IG post since his controversial comments in response to recent trade rumors.
Greg (@gwiss.bsky.social) reposted
God this guy sucks
Zach Ciavolella (@ciavo.bsky.social)
Some late-night thoughts on Kelly Oubre's recent comment on Sixers fans. Read with an open mind: phillysportsnetwork.com/2025/09/10/o...
Zach Ciavolella (@ciavo.bsky.social)
As the Sixers are known to do, the team waited until Philadelphia was abuzz about Kyle Schwarber's 50th home run to release the first footage of Joel Embiid in the gym since he underwent arthroscopic surgery on his left knee last April. phillysportsnetwork.com/2025/09/09/s...
Zach Ciavolella (@ciavo.bsky.social)
Kelly Oubre took to IG to call it how he sees it amidst trade rumors.
Zach Ciavolella (@ciavo.bsky.social)
Giddey wanted $30M AAV, Bulls offered $20M. Sides settled in the middle. Would imagine the Sixers negotiations with Grimes resolve a similar way. Important to note Giddey had started all but one game in his career. Grimes started just 37 of 75 games last season. Rough prediction: $18M AAV
Zach Ciavolella (@ciavo.bsky.social)
If you're heading down to the Bank tonight or tomorrow, be sure to check out the park's new temporary sculpture by the left field gate. metrophiladelphia.com/citizens-ban...
Zach Ciavolella (@ciavo.bsky.social) reply parent
TANKING TO THE TOP!
Zach Ciavolella (@ciavo.bsky.social)
Said “Do you know who I am?” to a bigwig tonight and feel invincible. (I was honestly just shocked to be recognized as a beat reporter)
Zach Ciavolella (@ciavo.bsky.social)
WERE RUNNING IT BACK. GREASE THE POLES. LIGHT THE BEACON
Zach Ciavolella (@ciavo.bsky.social)
The Sixers have officially announced that they will celebrate the '01 Iverson-led Sixers throughout the upcoming season. Read more: phillysportsnetwork.com/2025/09/08/s...
Zach Ciavolella (@ciavo.bsky.social)
To be clear, the team has NOT confirmed how they will be celebrating the team (meaning uniforms) outside of in-game and promotional throwbacks, alumni tributes, and custom merchandise... but...who knows...
Zach Ciavolella (@ciavo.bsky.social)
The Sixers have announced the schedule honoring the 25th anniversary of the '01 East champions: 11/8 vs TOR, 11/9 vs DET, 11/23 vs MIA, 12/4 vs GSW, 12/7 vs LAL, 12/20 vs DAL, 12/23 vs BKN, 1/24 vs NYK, 1/31 vs NOP, 2/11 vs NYK, 3/3 vs SAS, 3/4 vs UTA, 3/23 vs OKC, 4/12 vs MIL
Zach Ciavolella (@ciavo.bsky.social)
In his first game with the Indianapolis Colts, Daniel Jones reminded everyone why he was such a highly touted prospect coming out of Duke. Read more: dukewire.usatoday.com/story/sports...
Zach Ciavolella (@ciavo.bsky.social) reply parent
It's a tough situation. The team is so guard/wing heavy, and the arrival of Edgecombe and Justin Edwards makes Oubre a luxury and one of the team's few tradable players, especially considering his salary. He has to make himself indispensable, and probably needs a consistent 3PT shot to do so.
Zach Ciavolella (@ciavo.bsky.social)
Jake Fischer with some Sixers notes: • Thinks Quentin Grimes could take the qualifying offer due to PHI's backcourt logjam; Doesn't see PHI giving in. • Mentions buzz "all summer long" that PHI was looking to potentially move one or both of Andre Drummond and Kelly Oubre. Full video:
Zach Ciavolella (@ciavo.bsky.social)
Daniel Jones dominating with the Colts is my favorite side quest of the day.
Zach Ciavolella (@ciavo.bsky.social)
Duke HC Manny Diaz shouldered the brunt of the blame for the team's 45-19 loss to Illinois, but also believes the game was "a great lesson" for him and the team.
Zach Ciavolella (@ciavo.bsky.social)
Such high expectations, such a humbling result. dukewire.usatoday.com/story/sports...
Zach Ciavolella (@ciavo.bsky.social)
I have already seen enough of Adoree’ Jackson.
Zach Ciavolella (@ciavo.bsky.social)
I respect shit talking, but Jalen Carter is lame as hell for that. You’re just letting your team down.
Zach Ciavolella (@ciavo.bsky.social)
I had the chance to catch up with Jared McCain and VJ Edgecombe the other day. Both players are ready to hit training camp and are excited about what they and the other young Sixers can contribute this season. phillysportsnetwork.com/2025/09/03/s...
Zach Ciavolella (@ciavo.bsky.social)
Sixers rookie VJ Edgecombe takes the mound tonight for the Phillies for the first pitch. 📸: @shaunnestor.bsky.social
Zach Ciavolella (@ciavo.bsky.social)
In his debut with the Duke Blue Devils, Darian Mensah threw for 389 passing yards, the most in a player's debut in school history. 📸: James Guillory-Imagn Images
Zach Ciavolella (@ciavo.bsky.social)
Duke pinned down to their own five. Far from ideal especially considering they’ve struggled to move the ball against Elon so far.
Zach Ciavolella (@ciavo.bsky.social)
It's the end of an era. The Delaware Blue Coats announced they have traded Jared Brownridge as part of a three-team deal. Brownridge had been with Delaware since the 2017-2018 season, when they were the 87ers. Good luck to Brownridge on this next step in his journey 🫡
Zach Ciavolella (@ciavo.bsky.social)
Caught up with Mt. Joy's Matt Quinn to talk about the band's continued fight against food insecurity and their return to Philly as their current tour wraps up. metrophiladelphia.com/mt-joy-matt-...
Zach Ciavolella (@ciavo.bsky.social)
Read more on the changes coming to the venue, soon to be formerly known as Xfinity Live! metrophiladelphia.com/xfinity-live...
Zach Ciavolella (@ciavo.bsky.social)
One of my favorite interviews yet, especially as a pop-punk kid. I caught up with Bowling for Soup frontman Jared Reddick ahead of the band's upcoming performance at The Mann, discussing the band reaching 1 billion streams, advice for young bands, and more. metrophiladelphia.com/bowling-for-...
Zach Ciavolella (@ciavo.bsky.social)
Most of you know I love covering sports. Some of you know I also love covering music. As an animal lover, I also enjoy covering the latest going on at the Philadelphia Zoo, like this very cool new book about the true story of an endangered Amur Tiger cub. metrophiladelphia.com/philadelphia...
Zach Ciavolella (@ciavo.bsky.social)
Very grateful to have been welcomed into the Philadelphia Sports Writers Association. It's an honor, joy and privilege to write about Philly sports as a part of my profession, and I am eternally appreciative to everyone who has helped me in my sports journalism journey.
Zach Ciavolella (@ciavo.bsky.social)
The Sixers' 2025-2026 season schedule has been unveiled. For a complete breakdown, read more here:
Zach Ciavolella (@ciavo.bsky.social)
Sixers tease expected Iverson-era retro uniforms in schedule release video.
Zach Ciavolella (@ciavo.bsky.social)
Sixers marquee matchups: Opening night against Boston (Oct. 22) Home opener against Charlotte (Oct. 25) First game of NBA Cup against Boston (Oct. 31) The dreaded West Coast swing (Feb. 2-9) Season finale against Milwaukee (April 12)
Zach Ciavolella (@ciavo.bsky.social)
Philadelphia plays just 14 nationally televised games, down from 25 last season.
Zach Ciavolella (@ciavo.bsky.social)
The Sixers' complete 2025-2026 season schedule begins with a matchup against the Boston Celtics:
Zach Ciavolella (@ciavo.bsky.social)
I'm blessed to interview a lot of really cool people...but Jaret from Bowling for Soup? High school (never ends) me would never believe it.
Zach Ciavolella (@ciavo.bsky.social)
It sounds heretical, but I mean...looking at it, what else can you say? We've also hit the point in history when kids have been watching Steph long enough to influence their game after his. I doubt McCain will be the last Steph disciple, but credit him for being the first to truly resemble him.
Zach Ciavolella (@ciavo.bsky.social)
Thinking about Jared McCain relocation 3s
Zach Ciavolella (@ciavo.bsky.social)
This isn't a shot fired at a report, nor is it an attempt to persuade you to see life through rose-colored glasses. This is merely a reminder of what this time of year brings, and how the Sixers and Embiid have made the month of August particularly difficult on the fanbase. Article:
Zach Ciavolella (@ciavo.bsky.social)
"Getting to the NBA is hard. Getting to the NBA from Bimini? I don’t know the exact odds, but it’s gotta be like 0.000001% chance. That’s probably not even enough zeros, to be honest. So yeah, I was emotional as hell." — VJ Edgecombe in an article with The Players' Tribune. Full article:
Dan Devine (@yourmandevine.bsky.social) reposted
"It is funny to imagine Joel explaining Process lore to his therapist the same way I do with my therapist. Just being like, 'Well, Dario wasn't SUPPOSED to come over.'"
Zach Ciavolella (@ciavo.bsky.social)
I might shed a tear at the Damian Lillard news. Returning to Portland, I just love this for him and the franchise.
Zach Ciavolella (@ciavo.bsky.social)
The more I think about that Embiid article, the more I think it might be the greatest article ever written. It has both shamed and inspired me personally and professionally.
Zach Ciavolella (@ciavo.bsky.social)
A new memento of Phillies history has hit the market. Philadelphia Phillies slugger Kyle Schwarber, who was named MVP of the 2025 MLB All-Star Game, will be memorialized in bobblehead form for his accomplishment.
Zach Ciavolella (@ciavo.bsky.social)
I'm not going to share this quote or that snippet. I'm simply going to say everyone should read this article. If you love Embiid, if you hate him, if you are unfamiliar, read this article. www.espn.com/nba/story/_/...
Zach Ciavolella (@ciavo.bsky.social)
VJ Edgecombe RETURNS tonight as the Sixers face the Wizards.
Zach Ciavolella (@ciavo.bsky.social)
To be clear, George did not injure the same knee (right) as his compound fracture from his Pacers days, but it was the same knee (left) as his two hyperextensions and bone bruises last season.
Zach Ciavolella (@ciavo.bsky.social)
Paul George's surgery is certainly unfortunate, despite being deemed a "success." Arthroscopic procedures are often considered minor, but at George's age and with his injury history, this is another injury and surgery on the woodpile of already well-traveled knees.
Zach Ciavolella (@ciavo.bsky.social)
Paul George underwent successful arthroscopic surgery following an injury during a recent workout, the team announced. Dr. Glashow performed the surgery, the same doctor who has previously operated on Joel Embiid and Kawhi Leonard.
Zach Ciavolella (@ciavo.bsky.social)
A night to forget for the Summer League Sixers. phillysportsnetwork.com/2025/07/11/s...
Zach Ciavolella (@ciavo.bsky.social) reply parent
Honestly, my favorite part of this photo might be Brandon staring you down.
Zach Ciavolella (@ciavo.bsky.social)
Cooper Flagg almost Blake Griffined somebody 👀
Zach Ciavolella (@ciavo.bsky.social) reply parent
Fair. A little overexcitement on my end. *Top rookie would be more accurate for now but man there’s a lot to be excited about with this kid.
Zach Ciavolella (@ciavo.bsky.social)
Seems clear New Orleans plans on keeping Herb Jones but since he’s a frequent flyer of Sixers mock trades, I’ll just mention that he cannot be traded until Jan 10 after signing this extension.
Zach Ciavolella (@ciavo.bsky.social)
Sixers star rookie VJ Edgecombe was evaluated by and doctor and has been diagnosed with a left thumb sprain. He OUT for tomorrow’s Vegas Summer League game. He’s participating in on-court workouts and is working with the team’s medical staff. He will be reevaluated on Saturday.
Zach Ciavolella (@ciavo.bsky.social)
Solid addition by the Sixers. Barlow, a 6-foot-9 NJ native averaged 4.2 points and 2.4 rebounds in just over 10 minutes per game last season in Atlanta.
Zach Ciavolella (@ciavo.bsky.social)
Really like what I’m seeing from Hood-Schifino tonight. I know the Sixers have an embarrassment of young guard talent but I’d love for Philadelphia find a way to keep him in the organization moving forward. He still has another two-years of two-way eligibility.
Zach Ciavolella (@ciavo.bsky.social)
Duke's Darian Mensah continues to be one of the highly discussed signal-callers of the offseason, most recently being ranked as a top-25 QB in college football by @usatodaysports.usatoday.com. My latest for Duke Wire: dukewire.usatoday.com/story/sports...
Zach Ciavolella (@ciavo.bsky.social)
Jared Springer showing off a bit against his former team.
Zach Ciavolella (@ciavo.bsky.social)
VJ Edgecombe’s first bucket as a Sixer was a BEAUTY of a scoop.
Zach Ciavolella (@ciavo.bsky.social)
Johni Broome quickly taking and making a three. Very encouraging.
Zach Ciavolella (@ciavo.bsky.social)
The Sixers are adding another intriguing young power forward. They're set to sign former Blazer Jabari Walker to a two-way deal. phillysportsnetwork.com/2025/07/03/s...
Zach Ciavolella (@ciavo.bsky.social)
The Sixers are signing Jabari Walker to a two-way deal. Pretty interested in this for the Sixers. Walker is an intriguing young player who fits a need. A little undersized but versatile, can stretch the floor a bit (strong shooter from the corner), another tough presence.
Zach Ciavolella (@ciavo.bsky.social) reply parent
I’m a big fan of the “Revolution.”
Zach Ciavolella (@ciavo.bsky.social)
The first batch of odds on the official name of Philadelphia's future WNBA franchise has been released. Who are the favorites? And could the return of an old team name be in order? metrophiladelphia.com/philadelphia...
Zach Ciavolella (@ciavo.bsky.social)
As expected, veteran guard Eric Gordon is returning to the Sixers on a veteran minimum deal.
Zach Ciavolella (@ciavo.bsky.social)
Sixers announce Hunter Salis has been signed to a two-way deal.
Zach Ciavolella (@ciavo.bsky.social)
Sixers fans, here's a good news sandwich for you. Good news: Trendon Watford is legitimately good. Bad news: Yabusele is reportedly likely to sign elsewhere. Good news: The Sixers appear to have signed Watford for the vet min, so they can still use their MLE (possibly on Yabu).
Zach Ciavolella (@ciavo.bsky.social)
I LOVE this for Philadelphia. Watford brings so much that Philadelphia needs. He's an absolute dog on the court, defensively versatile, capable passer, can stretch the floor, and is just 24 years old. He's also good friends with Tyrese Maxey.
Zach Ciavolella (@ciavo.bsky.social)
Back to back Embiid sightings as Joel visited the Philly Goat Project as his In Memory of Arthur Foundation supported a visit for students from the NoMo Foundation on Friday.
Zach Ciavolella (@ciavo.bsky.social)
So deserved on Justin’s part. Proved himself least season, and everything I’ve heard since has been that he’s been in the gym ever since (except for a well-deserved vacation).
Zach Ciavolella (@ciavo.bsky.social)
Sixers center Andre Drummond is set to opt into his $5 million player option for the 2025-2026 NBA season. phillysportsnetwork.com/2025/06/27/s...
Shams Charania Tweets (@shamsbot.bsky.social) reposted
FROM SHAMS: Wake Forest's Hunter Sallis has agreed to a two-way NBA contract with the Philadelphia 76ers, sources tell ESPN.
Zach Ciavolella (@ciavo.bsky.social)
Spark notes on new Sixer Hunter Sallis: Lengthy Strong ball handler Impactful defender on/off ball 61.9% at the rim in halfcourt this year 52.3% on midrange pull-ups this year Poor shooter from range this year (27.7%) but one year removed from shooting over 40% on 185 attempts.
Zach Ciavolella (@ciavo.bsky.social)
Sixers fans, meet Johni Broome, the 35th pick in the 2025 NBA Draft. phillysportsnetwork.com/2025/06/26/s...
Zach Ciavolella (@ciavo.bsky.social)
Barring a last-minute change, VJ Edgecombe is set to become the first player to wear the No. 77 in Sixers franchise history. phillysportsnetwork.com/2025/06/26/v...
Zach Ciavolella (@ciavo.bsky.social)
The Sixers pick 5th as the second round begins and there's still tons of talent available: Adou Thiero, Rasheer Fleming, Noah Penda, Jamir Watkins, Maxine Raynaud, Ryan Kalkbrenner, Jamir Watkins, Johni Broome, Kam Jones, Chaz Lanier, Alex Toohey, Tyrese Proctor, and Eric Dixon.
Zach Ciavolella (@ciavo.bsky.social)
VJ Edgecombe on being teammates with Eric Gordon: "It means a lot... it's a great thing... There'll be someone I already know on the team that can help me in ways of longevity, or how to play a role, just stuff like that. Just teach me life on and off the court."
Zach Ciavolella (@ciavo.bsky.social)
VJ Edgecombe on playing with the Sixers' Big 3: "I feel like I'll play well off of them. I've been playing off the ball, so I don't need the ball to be impactful. Knowing the type of players they are, I feel like I'll be able to fit right in, play off of them, learn from them."
Zach Ciavolella (@ciavo.bsky.social) reply parent
"That just comes with grit. I just hate seeing the opponent score, because if they score more than us, they win. I hate to lose, but I just love to win."
Zach Ciavolella (@ciavo.bsky.social)
VJ Edgecombe again on his defense: "I just love playing defense because I know that I can play on the floor [even] if I'm not scoring. Scoring is not just the only aspect of the game... Why not be an elite defender or try your hardest to be an elite defender?"
Zach Ciavolella (@ciavo.bsky.social)
VJ Edgecombe on fellow Bahamian and former Sixer Buddy Hield: "Buddy, great person, great personality. He has nothing but love to say about Philly."
Zach Ciavolella (@ciavo.bsky.social) reply parent
*backcourt mate* I'm running on six hours of sleep over two days, bear with me.
Zach Ciavolella (@ciavo.bsky.social)
VJ Edgecombe on the Sixers valuing him as a player and a person: "It means a lot... if my character wasn't likable, I don't think they would have picked me. It shows a lot about who they are as people. It's the City Brotherly Love. I don't think they want anyone here that doesn't show love..."
Zach Ciavolella (@ciavo.bsky.social)
VJ Edgecombe on his approach defensively: "My mentality is not letting anybody score. I hate to see other people score... I just hate to see other people score... that's my thing, I just do not like seeing other people score. "
Zach Ciavolella (@ciavo.bsky.social) reply parent
"but I just got to know him, man. He's a great person, super energetic, full of joy, that's someone that I'm definitely looking forward to working with. [He's] gonna be my backyard, hopefully we retire with the same team, man."
Zach Ciavolella (@ciavo.bsky.social)
VJ Edgecombe on Tyrese Maxey: "He's a great person. Great person. We just got to know each other. We didn't even talk basketball the whole time. Talked basketball here and there. He's like, tell me where he's seeing me, but I was just telling him how I'm just a huge fan of his game,"
Zach Ciavolella (@ciavo.bsky.social)
VJ Edgecombe on being drafted to the Sixers: "It's a surreal moment being drafted by Philly. It's a surreal moment. Man, I was lost for words for like, the first 20 minutes, 30 minutes. So I just can't believe it's true."