WATCH: 76ers Joel Embiid says he's like Federer

The most fascinating NBA-tennis junkie might just be Philadelphia 76ers star Joel Embiid.

He's not the first NBA star to dabble in the racket sport; Clyde Drexler and Kobe Bryant enjoy tennis, and Dirk Nowitzki and Gordon Hayward grew up playing it.

The seven-foot Embiid recently signed a five-year $148 million deal despite playing only 31 of 246 possible games in his three-year career. While his team finished up their recent preseason, the 23-year-old center played tennis at a public park in Philadelphia.

Embiid was eager to promote his skills, comparing himself to the most famous tennis standard of them all.

While the basketball fans in Philadelphia might hold their collective breath about Embiid reinjuring his valuable knees (he had meniscus surgery in March), head coach Brett Brown told *The Ringer* gave his blessing. He says he's glad Embiid is "trying to find ways to do active things outside."

Embiid had no trouble sprinting around the court, exuding the energy of Federer's rival Rafael Nadal, and he even runs home after practice like a real-life Rocky Balboa.

Bleacher Report noticed Embiid's talent, photoshopping his head onto Frances Tiafoe's body.

Embiid is also a student of the game. In July, he watched Andy Roddick and Mardy Fish play World Team Tennis in Philadelphia.

If Federer ever considered a future cross-sport exhibition, Embiid could be the best choice.