Joel Embiid in ‘iron sharpens iron’ situation amidst struggles in Team USA, says analyst

Embiid is looking to silence his critics and make a meaningful contribution to Team USA's success.

Joel Embiid in ‘iron sharpens iron’ situation amidst struggles in Team USA, says analyst

Joel Embiid

Joel Embiid‘s struggles with Team USA have been a topic of discussion, but according to analyst Kendrick Perkins, being surrounded by greatness is exactly what the Philadelphia 76ers star needs. Perkins believes that Embiid’s commitment to playing for Team USA will ultimately benefit him.

Perkins’ comments come after Joel Embiid faced criticism for choosing to play for Team USA instead of his birth country, Cameroon. Some fans have questioned Embiid’s loyalty and dedication to his homeland, while others have praised his decision to represent the United States on the international stage. Despite the controversy, Perkins believes that Embiid’s experience with Team USA will ultimately make him a better player.

When you commit to something, especially like playing for Team USA, you don’t take that lightly. That means that you prepare--The best thing’s that’s happen to him right now is that iron sharpens iron. Now he’s around greatness, he’s around Kevin Durant, Steph Curry, LeBron James.
Kendrick Perkins said on NBA Today

Embiid’s play for Team USA has been inconsistent, leading some to express their disappointment on social media. However, Perkins remains optimistic about Embiid’s potential, saying that being around greatness will bring out the best in him. With the likes of Durant, Curry, and James pushing him to elevate his game, Embiid has the opportunity to learn from the best and take his skills to the next level.

As Team USA continues to compete in the Paris Olympics, all eyes will be on Embiid to see if he can rise to the challenge and prove himself on the international stage. With Perkins’ words of encouragement ringing in his ears, Embiid will look to silence his critics and make a meaningful contribution to Team USA’s success.

Joel Embiid unfazed by French fans’ boos at Olympics

Joel Embiid, the Team USA center, shrugged off the boos from French fans during Sunday’s win over Serbia at the 2024 Summer Olympics. Embiid, who was born in Cameroon and holds French and American citizenship, chose to represent the US over France last year, which led to criticism from some in the French basketball community.

Nothing. Like I said, I’m an American, I play for Team USA.
Joel Embiid said to Joe Vardon of The Athletic about the boos

Embiid explained that he wanted to represent the country where his son was born and felt pressured by France to make a decision. He also stated that he has lived in the US for 14 years and considers it his home. Despite the backlash, Embiid remains unbothered and focused on competing for Team USA.

Embiid has been the starting center for Team USA but was limited to four points and two rebounds in his official debut. France, meanwhile, is also off to a strong start in Olympic play, heading into their next game against Japan. Embiid’s decision to represent the US continues to be a topic of discussion, but he remains committed to his choice.

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