In a pivotal move for international basketball, Joel Embiid, the formidable NBA MVP, has officially declared his commitment to play for Team USA at the 2024 Olympics in Paris, opting against representing France. The decision was confirmed by CBS Sports’ Bill Reiter after a crucial meeting between Embiid and Team USA managing director Grant Hill in Fort Collins, Colorado. The choice comes as a strategic effort by Embiid to contribute to Team USA’s redemption following their fourth-place finish at the recent FIBA World Cup.
The 2024 Team USA lineup is shaping up to be a powerhouse, featuring an array of basketball luminaries, including Stephen Curry, Kevin Durant, LeBron James, Devin Booker, Jayson Tatum, and Kawhi Leonard. This decision by Embiid signals a significant strengthening of Team USA’s roster for the upcoming Olympic competition.
While the USA celebrates this major win, it’s a significant setback for France, who had actively pursued Embiid. Despite this loss, France can still look forward to the inclusion of Victor Wembanyama, the top pick in the 2023 NBA Draft, who has expressed his intent to represent his country at the Olympics. The dynamics of international basketball have undoubtedly shifted with Embiid’s allegiance to Team USA.
