Joel Embiid Faces Backlash in Paris for Choosing Team USA over France

Joel Embiid is making waves at the 2024 Paris Olympics, and not just for his impressive size and skill. The NBA star, known for his time with the Philadelphia 76ers, is representing Team USA in a decision that has sparked a fair amount of controversy, especially back in France.

At 7-feet tall and 280 pounds, Embiid’s presence on Team USA alongside other basketball legends like LeBron James, Stephen Curry, and Kevin Durant seems like a dream team. He earned the title of the NBA’s MVP just a year before, showcasing his skills at an average of 34.7 points per game in the recent season.

Born in Yaounde, Cameroon, Embiid didn’t start playing basketball until he was 15. He moved to the United States soon after being spotted by NBA player Luc Mbah A Moute. He quickly rose through the ranks and was drafted by the 76ers in 2014.

Interestingly, Embiid had the option to play for France, as he gained citizenship there in May 2022. However, he chose to represent the United States, largely influenced by the fact that his son was born in the U.S. He expressed his desire to play for Team USA after discussions with his family.

His choice hasn’t sat well with some French fans and basketball figures. After France’s national team lost to Team USA in the 2020 Olympics, there was hope he’d join forces with French stars like Victor Wembanyama and Rudy Gobert in Paris.

Former player Boris Diaw mentioned that Embiid expressed interest in playing for France before they helped him obtain citizenship. This led to a buildup of expectations, which were dashed when Embiid opted to don the red, white, and blue instead.

As expected, the reception for Embiid during Team USA’s opener against Serbia was less than warm. French fans booed him throughout the game for choosing the United States over France, despite the fact that he also had the option to play for his native Cameroon.

While Embiid’s choice to play for Team USA was motivated by family, some French fans see his decision as a betrayal, especially since he never lived in France. They view it as a missed opportunity for the French national team.

Despite the backlash, Embiid seems to be taking it all in stride. He joked with teammates about the reactions he might face in Paris and stated that he is not overly concerned about it. After all, he’s faced tougher crowds before—like during playoff games in New York.