Joel Embiid makes major decision on Olympics that will leave fans disappointed
Reigning NBA MVP Joel Embiid has committed to play for Team USA in the 2024 Paris Olympics, according to multiple sources.
The Philadelphia 76ers star was deciding between USA, France, and Cameroon but decided to represent the No. 1 ranked team in the world. Embiid was born in Cameroon and moved to the United States as a youth in high school, and now wants to give back to the nation.
Embiid is the latest All-Star to commit to USA for the Olympics, following players like Kevin Durant and potentially LeBron Jones - who is still undecided. His decision has disappointed fans in Africa, with Embiid seen as a role model across the continent.
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NBA Africa is being given a major push, as the league continues to follow the NFL and expand their brand globally. Embiid has inspired a generation in Africa due to his rise in the NBA, but unfortunately for them he won't be representing the nation at international level.
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His decision has also stopped a potential partnership with Victor Wembanyama for France, but Team USA are huge favourites to win gold. "My goal is to play in the Olympics," Embiid said before making his decision.
"I love all three options (USA, France, Cameroon). Cameroon — I [was] born there. I'm from there, and I always want to represent my country. … If we had a chance or if we were qualified for the Olympics, that would be an easy decision, but that's still up in the air.
"And then the USA, obviously they've been struggling the last couple of years, trying to get back on the top. And you've also got France, who's up and coming. I'm just thankful that I'm able to be in that situation. It is a tough choice, but I'm probably going to make that decision in the next few days."
Embiid made his decision shortly after Durant committed to play, and James is expected to follow him in playing for Team USA. Stephen Curry is also likely to travel to Paris, and it could be one of the strongest rosters ever seen.
The 76ers star is keen to win as much as he can in his career, and he moaned about the MVP criteria before winning the prized award. He is yet to get near an NBA championship with the 76ers, and if they don't improve quickly under new head coach Nick Nurse, he could push for a trade like team-mate James Harden has attempted.
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