By Eurohoops team/ info@eurohoops.net
The Philadelphia 76ers and reigning NBA MVP, Joel Embiid, explained the reasons behind his decision to represent Team USA in the 2024 Paris Olympics.
He had two other options: the hosts France or his native Cameroon which made it to the Olympic Qualifiers.
“It was tough. Obviously, I love all three options. With my home country, which I love a lot, but I really want to participate in the Olympics. That’s been my goal and my dream. You add that with the fact that my son is American, I’ve been here for such a long time. My family, my son, and having the chance to represent a country like the U.S. Like I said, I love my home country, but ultimately, I really want to play in the Olympics,” Embiid said.
He had a deadline to respond to France’s proposal and insists he was grateful for being given the chance.
“I’m really thankful for the opportunity. France made the commitment that they were willing to make, I really appreciate it. It was a tough decision. I was trying to take my time as much as possible, but it was kind of made hard by the deadline that was put, but I’m happy with it,” Embiid added.
The NBA MVP met with all parties before making a final decision.
“I needed to have one last conversation. I kind of knew a little bit of what was going on. I didn’t have just that last conversation with Grant Hill. I talked to the boss and the French people. I just wanted to make sure that I was making the right decision. It just took one last meeting with all parties involved, then I went ahead.”
Big stars like LeBron James, Kevin Durant, and Steph Curry are committed to playing in the Olympics, but apparently, it didn’t affect Embiid’s decision-making.
“You want to play with great players, but I didn’t think about that at all. It’s great. I think that’s a huge sacrifice, especially after a long NBA season. So when we have guys committing like this, I think it’s great. Not just for them, but also for the game of basketball and the Olympics because basketball is such a huge sport at this point. Like I said, going back to family, that’s really what it came down to,” Embiid concluded