In a groundbreaking move, Team USA has significantly bolstered their roster for the 2024 Olympics by recruiting reigning MVP Joel Embiid. This strategic acquisition marks a pivotal moment as the team gears up for international competition. Now a naturalized American citizen, Embiid faced stiff competition from France, who were also vying for his talents. A letter allegedly written by Embiid to French President Emmanuel Macron requesting citizenship leaked in April, adding a layer of international intrigue to the saga.
Embiid's decision to commit to Team USA has not been without controversy. Frederic Weis, a prominent figure in French basketball, suggested that Embiid be banned from entering France for the Olympics. Despite the noise, Embiid donned the American jersey in a series of exhibition games where he encountered mixed fortunes.
In his first exhibition game against Canada, Embiid fouled out, an inauspicious start to his journey with Team USA. Over the course of three exhibition games, he managed to score 23 points on 7-of-19 shooting. His performance against Serbia, in particular, highlighted some challenges; Embiid posted the worst plus-minus of any American who logged at least 10 minutes. This has prompted some concerns about his adaptation to the team's pace and style, particularly those favored by guards like Tyrese Haliburton and Anthony Edwards.
However, Team USA’s depth offers significant strategic flexibility, proven in Anthony Davis's role as Embiid’s backup. Davis, with his unique skill set, has thrived in the absence of a defensive three-second rule and lenient goaltending restrictions in FIBA play. This has suited his style perfectly, leading to a stellar performance of six blocks against Serbia and a total of 12 blocks over three games. On the offensive end, Davis has been efficient, shooting 13-of-24 from the floor.
Davis’s mobility and verticality provide a distinct advantage in pick-and-roll situations, areas where Embiid has struggled. Opponents have targeted Embiid in drop coverage with floaters, exploiting the space around him. Nevertheless, the dynamic pairing of Davis and Bam Adebayo in the frontcourt has been central to the success of Team USA’s bench group, which thrives on speed and athleticism.
Davis and LeBron James bring an added layer of experience and chemistry to the team, given their established partnership over five years with the Los Angeles Lakers. This duo represents the longest tenure of any two players on Team USA in the NBA, a testament to their enduring chemistry and understanding on the court.
Under the guidance of head coach Steve Kerr, Team USA has adopted a strategy that does not revolve around any single player. This adaptability allows them to tailor their approach based on match-ups and in-game situations, leveraging their overall talent advantage to maintain a significant margin for error. As Davis expressed, “I'd be happy to play if I'm asked,” showcasing his readiness to step up whenever needed.
While Embiid faces ongoing challenges in assimilating into Team USA’s system, he remains a crucial part of their quest for Olympic glory. The blend of his exceptional skills with the varied talents of his teammates forms a formidable squad. Team USA is poised, prepared for the challenges ahead, and focused on their ultimate goal: Olympic triumph.