Joel Embiid Chooses to Play for USA in Paris Olympics, Rejects France

Joel Embiid has chosen to play for the USA Basketball team in the Paris Olympics over France. Embiid cited his son being American as one of the reasons for his decision.

Joel Embiid, the NBA's reigning MVP and scoring champion, has made his decision to represent the United States in the Paris Olympics next summer. After deliberating for over a year, Embiid chose the Americans over France, citing his son's American citizenship as a significant factor in his decision. He expressed his love for his home country but expressed his desire to play in the Olympics for the U.S. Embiid informed USA Basketball managing director Grant Hill of his decision and made it public on Thursday.

France had given Embiid an October 10 deadline to decide on his Olympic plans. While he appreciated the interest from the French team, Embiid felt pressured by the deadline but ultimately made the decision he was happy with. USA Basketball is set to name its team in the spring of 2024, and if healthy, Embiid is expected to secure one of the 12 spots on the squad. The team will be coached by Golden State's Steve Kerr, with assistants Erik Spoelstra of Miami, Tyronn Lue of the Los Angeles Clippers, and Mark Few of Gonzaga.

The news of Embiid's decision was met with excitement from players like Stephen Curry, Kevin Durant, LeBron James, and Bam Adebayo, who are also hoping to play for the U.S. next summer. Embiid's choice to represent the United States is a significant win for the team, as he had multiple options due to his international background and multiple passports. France, the reigning Olympic silver medalists, had pitched Embiid on joining their frontcourt, but he ultimately chose to play for the U.S.

Embiid, who became a U.S. citizen last year, could have also played for his homeland, Cameroon, or France if they qualified for the Paris Games. However, he decided to focus on his American roots and represent the country where his son was born. It was a difficult decision for Embiid, but he feels ready and wants to shift his focus to the upcoming NBA season with the Philadelphia 76ers.

Overall, Embiid's decision to play for the United States adds depth and talent to the team's roster as they aim for a fifth consecutive gold medal in Paris. With players like Embiid, Curry, Durant, and James, the U.S. team is looking stacked and ready to compete against tough international competition. Embiid's presence as a dominant big man will undoubtedly strengthen the team's chances of success in the Olympics.