Philadelphia 76ers forward Kelly Oubre Jr. has never been one to bite his tongue, and this week, he made sure the city heard him loud and clear.
Amid swirling trade rumors and criticism from fans, Oubre took to Instagram with a blistering message that’s since gone viral, calling out those who’ve questioned his value and toughness.
“I love Philly, but the love doesn’t seem to be reciprocated. What happened to this place?” Oubre wrote. “And for those saying I’m garbage because my 3% went down… $till put up numbers and I’d $till cook you. I played through finger surgeries on my thumb and pinky for three years, but $till put my soul in this s–t. That’s one thing only GOD can take from me. Hope to see y’all $oon. Godspeed”
Kelly Oubre says he doesn’t feel the love from Philadelphia fans anymore and claims he’d cook anyone who thinks he’s garbage 👀
(h/t @Ky_Carlin ) pic.twitter.com/OCpPRF8YIB
— NBACentral (@TheDunkCentral) September 10, 2025
Oubre’s frustration stems from a summer of speculation. As the Sixers work to clear cap space to re-sign rising star Quentin Grimes, Oubre’s name has repeatedly surfaced as a potential trade candidate. Despite exercising his $8.3 million player option, the veteran wing finds himself on the chopping block, an unsettling position for someone who’s been one of the team’s most reliable contributors.
In two seasons with Philadelphia, Oubre has averaged 15.3 points and 5.5 rebounds per game, often stepping up when stars like Joel Embiid and Tyrese Maxey were sidelined. He played through injuries, took on expanded roles, and delivered in clutch moments. Yet, some fans have focused on his declining three-point percentage, prompting Oubre’s fiery defense.
Philadelphia is known for its passionate, and often unforgiving, fan base. Oubre’s experience is a reminder that love in this city is earned, not given. But his response also shows that he’s not just passing through. He’s invested, emotionally and physically, and wants recognition for the sacrifices he’s made.
“This is my home. My family lives here. I live here. I represent this city. I represent this community,” Oubre told reporters last season.
Whether Oubre remains in Philly or is moved to make room for Grimes, his message is clear: he’s not backing down.
