In a major win for Team USA, the recruitment of Joel Embiid marks a pivotal step as they bolster their roster ahead of the 2024 Olympics. The reigning MVP, who recently became a naturalized American citizen, had a dramatic journey involving a competitive tug-of-war with France. Reports surfaced in April suggesting that Embiid had penned a letter to French President Emmanuel Macron, seeking French citizenship, which undoubtedly added layers to the transatlantic recruitment saga.
As the dust settles on Embiid’s national allegiance, reactions have been swift and, at times, surprising. Former French basketball player Frederic Weis publicly suggested that Embiid should be barred from entering France for the Olympics following his commitment to Team USA, underscoring the high stakes and fierce emotions involved in this recruitment battle.
Embiid’s initial outings with Team USA have been a mixed bag. In his first exhibition game against Canada, Embiid fouled out, setting an uneasy tone. Over the span of three exhibition games, he accumulated 23 points on 7-of-19 shooting, statistics that fall short of his MVP standards. Adding to his challenges, Embiid posted the worst plus-minus of any American player who logged at least 10 minutes in the game against Serbia.
Depth in the Frontcourt
Backing up Embiid is Anthony Davis, whose performance has been nothing short of stellar. Davis recorded six blocks against Serbia and tallied a total of 12 blocks over three games. The absence of a defensive three-second rule and the FIBA’s lenient goaltending restrictions have played to Davis’s strengths, allowing him to dominate the paint on both ends of the floor.
While Davis’s efficiency stands at an impressive 13-of-24 from the floor over three games, his defensive prowess remains his standout attribute. He has seamlessly integrated into a frontcourt pairing with Bam Adebayo, integral to the success of Team USA's bench group. Davis attributes some of his on-court chemistry to his long-standing alliance with LeBron James, formed over five years with the Los Angeles Lakers. Their tenure together is the longest among any two players on Team USA in the NBA, offering a unique chemistry and reliability under high-pressure situations.
Strategic Adaptability
The transition has not been as smooth for Embiid, who has struggled to keep pace with the style favored by guards like Tyrese Haliburton and Anthony Edwards. Opponents have exploited Embiid’s tendencies in drop coverage with precision floaters, probing the space around the towering center. Conversely, Davis’s mobility and verticality provide distinct advantages in pick-and-roll scenarios, giving Team USA a strategic edge. “I'd be happy to play if I'm asked,” Davis said, emphasizing his readiness to step into any role required.
Under head coach Steve Kerr, Team USA has embraced a strategy that does not revolve around a single player, allowing them to adapt flexibly based on match-ups and in-game dynamics. This tactical versatility permits a significant margin for error, given their overall talent advantage. The bench groups have thrived on speed and athleticism, with rotations designed to maximize each player's unique contributions.
As Team USA navigates the exhibition games and prepares for the impending challenges of the 2024 Olympics, the dynamic between Embiid and Davis will be closely watched. Their contributions, alongside a roster brimming with talent, lay the groundwork for a campaign aimed at Olympic glory.