Joel Embiid, the NBA’s MVP, is the biggest wild card for the 2024 Olympics in Paris. He has four options about his plans for next summer.
Embiid has citizenship in three different countries. First, he can play for Cameroon, where he was born. Cameroon is slated as one of the 24 national teams that will compete for one of the final four spots in the FIBA World Olympic Qualifying Tournament in July 2024.
Second, the big man can also play for France, which earned an Olympic berth as the host nation in the tournament. Third: He can suit up for the United States, which earned their qualifications during the FIBA World Cup.
Embiid can also skip out on the Olympics altogether, but that seems unlikely. Here is what he said during Philadelphia’s media day about his looming decision (via Olympics.com):
“My goal is to play in the Olympics,” Embiid said. “I love all three options. Cameroon — I [was] born there. I’m from there, and I always want to represent my country. … If we had a chance or if we were qualified for the Olympics, that would be an easy decision, but that’s still up in the air. … And then the USA, obviously they’ve been struggling the last couple of years, trying to get back on the top. And you’ve also got France, who’s up and coming.”
Fans won’t have to wait long for Embiid to make his choice, though.
According to the big man, he will make his decision sooner rather than later:
“I’m just thankful that I’m able to be in that situation. It is a tough choice, but I’m probably going to make that decision in the next few days.”
Even if Embiid does not decide to play for Team USA, there are several other NBA stars who have pledged to take the trip to Paris.
Some of those players include LeBron James, Kevin Durant, Stephen Curry and Jayson Tatum.
Embiid and Anthony Davis are likely the top priorities at center for Team USA. But if Embiid decides not to play, it isn’t the end of the world. Other options include Bam Adebayo, Draymond Green, Evan Mobley and Kevon Looney.
Team USA had a disappointing finish during the FIBA World Cup, though, and would assuredly get a tremendous boost if Embiid decides to play for them in Paris.
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