The recruitment of reigning MVP and newly naturalized American citizen Joel Embiid has been a significant boost for Team USA as they gear up for the 2024 Olympics. Embiid's addition to the roster comes after a challenging recruitment journey that saw a competitive tug-of-war with France for his commitment.
In April, a letter allegedly written by Embiid to French President Emmanuel Macron requesting citizenship leaked to the public, highlighting the intensity of the battle for his allegiance. Despite these efforts, Embiid ultimately chose to represent Team USA, a decision that sparked notable controversy. In response, former French basketball player Frederic Weis suggested that Embiid be banned from entering France for the Olympics.
Embiid’s transition to international play has not been without its challenges. In his first exhibition game against Canada, he fouled out, and over three exhibition games, he managed to score a total of 23 points on 7-of-19 shooting. Additionally, Embiid posted the worst plus-minus of any American player logging at least 10 minutes in the game against Serbia. His struggles have been attributed to adapting to the pace and style favored by guards like Tyrese Haliburton and Anthony Edwards, as well as opponents targeting him in drop coverage with floaters that exploit the space around him.
Serving as Embiid's backup is Anthony Davis, who has displayed formidable defensive prowess. Against Serbia, Davis blocked six shots, contributing to a total of 12 blocks over three games. The FIBA’s lack of a defensive three-second rule and lenient goaltending restrictions have played to Davis’s strengths, allowing him to be an even more formidable presence in the paint. Offensively, he’s been efficient, shooting 13-of-24 from the floor over the same span of games.
Davis has also shown a unique ability to thrive in pick-and-roll situations due to his mobility and verticality, elements that have been central to Team USA’s defensive strategy. Moreover, Davis’s established chemistry with teammate LeBron James, developed over their five-year tenure with the Los Angeles Lakers, has been a cornerstone of their on-court dynamics. This pairing represents the longest tenure of any two players on Team USA in the NBA, contributing to the overall cohesion and effectiveness of the squad.
The bench units of Team USA have capitalized on their speed and athleticism, with the frontcourt duo of Davis and Bam Adebayo being particularly pivotal to the bench group’s success. Head Coach Steve Kerr has emphasized a strategy that doesn’t rely on any single player, allowing the team to adapt fluidly based on match-ups and in-game situations. This flexibility has given Team USA a notable margin for error, underscored by their overall talent advantage.
With Team USA aiming for potential Olympic glory, the depth and resilience of their roster will be crucial. Embiid, despite his early struggles, is expected to adjust and become a vital part of the team’s campaign. Meanwhile, Davis has expressed his readiness to step up whenever needed, stating, “I'd be happy to play if I'm asked.”
As Team USA continues to prepare for the challenges ahead, the unique blend of talent, experience, and strategic flexibility positions them strongly. Whether it’s the defensive might of Davis or the eventual integration of Embiid’s elite skills, the team’s journey to the 2024 Olympics remains a dynamic and closely watched narrative in the world of sports.