Joel Embiid, the towering center for the Philadelphia 76ers, has officially made his debut with Team USA basketball at the 2024 Paris Olympics, a decision that has sparked significant attention and mixed reactions globally. Born in Yaoundé, Cameroon, Embiid had the unique opportunity to represent three nations: his birthplace Cameroon, France where he holds a passport, and the United States, the country he has called home since he was 16. Ultimately, Embiid chose to don the red, white, and blue, primarily to honor his son, Arthur, who was born in the United States.
Embiid’s path to the Olympics is a testament to his exceptional basketball journey. Discovered by fellow Cameroonian and former NBA player Luc Mbah a Moute, Embiid moved to the United States at 16 to pursue his basketball dreams. He attended Montverde Academy and The Rock School in Florida before playing a standout year at the University of Kansas. Drafted third overall in the 2014 NBA Draft by the 76ers, Embiid has since become one of the most dominant players in the league, averaging an NBA-best 34.7 points per game during the 2023-24 season.
Despite his roots and initial leanings towards France, Embiid’s decision to represent Team USA was driven by personal motivations. “I’m really proud and excited about this decision. It wasn’t easy. I am fortunate to call Cameroon, France, and the USA my home,” Embiid explained. “After discussions with my family, I knew my allegiance had to be with Team USA. I want to play with my brothers in the league. I want to play for my fans because they’ve been incredible since the day I came here. But most of all, I want to honor my son who was born in the US. I want my boy to know I played my first Olympics for him.”
Embiid’s decision, however, has not been without controversy. French fans, in particular, have expressed their disappointment, feeling betrayed by Embiid’s choice to play for the USA despite holding French citizenship since 2022. During Team USA’s Olympic opener against Serbia, Embiid was met with boos whenever he touched the ball, reflecting the lingering frustration among French supporters. The French Basketball Federation President, Jean-Pierre Siutat, commented, “Team USA, with him, who can beat you? Come on, nobody. This is an easy way for him to get an Olympic medal.”
Embiid’s Olympic debut was not his best performance, scoring only four points and grabbing a few rebounds in a 110-84 victory over Serbia. Despite the lackluster individual stats, Team USA dominated the game, led by stellar performances from Kevin Durant and LeBron James. Embiid and his teammates are now focused on regrouping for their next match against South Sudan.
Embiid’s story is not just about basketball; it is about navigating complex identities and allegiances. He embodies a unique blend of Cameroonian roots, French connections, and American aspirations. His choice underscores a deep personal connection to his family and his journey in the United States. As Team USA aims for its fifth consecutive gold medal, Embiid’s presence adds a formidable force to an already star-studded lineup.