The recruitment of Joel Embiid has marked a significant milestone for Team USA as they bolster their lineup for the 2024 Olympics. Embiid, the reigning NBA MVP, has recently become a naturalized American citizen, an event that has undoubtedly strengthened the team’s roster.
Embiid's enlistment with Team USA was far from straightforward. His journey involved a competitive tug-of-war with France, culminating in a reported letter penned by Embiid to French President Emmanuel Macron, requesting citizenship—a letter that leaked in April. This diplomatic duel reached its climax when former French basketball player Frederic Weis suggested that Embiid be banned from entering France for the Olympics after choosing to commit to Team USA.
Embiid’s performance in the early exhibition games has been underwhelming. Fouling out of his first exhibition game against Canada, he managed just 23 points on 7-of-19 shooting across three games. The game against Serbia was particularly troubling as he posted the worst plus-minus of any American who logged at least ten minutes. This performance highlights some teething issues as Embiid adapts to the pace and style favored by guards like Tyrese Haliburton and Anthony Edwards.
Anthony Davis, serving as Embiid’s backup, has excelled in the defensive domain. His six blocks against Serbia and a total of 12 blocks through three games demonstrate his impact, significantly aided by FIBA’s lenient goaltending restrictions and the absence of a defensive three-second rule. Davis has also been efficient offensively, shooting 13-of-24 from the floor over this period.
Davis’s skills seem tailored for the international stage. His mobility and verticality have proven advantageous in pick-and-roll situations, allowing him to excel where Embiid has struggled. Davis’s established chemistry with LeBron James, honed over five years with the Los Angeles Lakers, only enhances his contributions to Team USA. Together, Davis and James form the duo with the longest tenure in the NBA among Team USA players.
The bench units have thrived under coach Steve Kerr's strategic approach, which emphasizes adaptability rather than relying on a single star. This flexibility, coupled with a significant talent advantage, provides Team USA with a substantial margin for error. The frontcourt pairing of Davis and Bam Adebayo has been pivotal to the bench’s success, leveraging speed and athleticism to overpower opponents.
Despite the ups and downs, Davis remains eager to contribute wherever needed. “I'd be happy to play if I'm asked," he said, underscoring his readiness to step up. His versatility and willingness to adapt ensure that Team USA is well-equipped to face the challenges that lie ahead.
As the team prepares for the 2024 Olympics, the blend of talent and strategy positions them strongly for potential glory. Embiid’s integration into the squad, though currently marred with adjustment difficulties, represents a crucial asset in the overall scheme of things. Meanwhile, other players like Davis are primed to ensure that Team USA maximizes their opportunities on the grandest stage.