In a significant coup for Team USA, the recruitment of reigning MVP Joel Embiid has added a new layer of depth and talent to their roster as they prepare for the 2024 Olympics. Embiid, now a naturalized American citizen, had a highly publicized decision-making process that saw him caught in a tug-of-war with France over his national team allegiance.
This international saga saw a letter, allegedly penned by Embiid to French President Emmanuel Macron, requesting French citizenship leak in April. The drama intensified when Frederic Weis suggested that Embiid be barred from entering France for the Olympics after declaring his commitment to Team USA.
Embiid's early performances in exhibition games have been a mixed bag, highlighting both his potential and his struggles to adapt to the team’s dynamics. In his first outing against Canada, Embiid fouled out, marking a challenging start to his tenure with Team USA. Over the course of three exhibition games, he accumulated 23 points on a less-than-stellar 7-of-19 shooting. Moreover, in the game against Serbia, Embiid posted the worst plus-minus of any American player who logged at least 10 minutes.
Despite these struggles, Embiid's presence offers undeniable benefits. He provides a formidable offensive and defensive presence and adds an interesting dynamic when paired with Anthony Davis, who serves as his backup. Davis has had an impressive start, blocking six shots against Serbia and accumulating a total of 12 blocks over three games. The FIBA’s rules, which lack a defensive three-second rule and feature lenient goaltending restrictions, have played to Davis's strengths.
On the offensive end, Davis has been efficient, shooting 13-of-24 from the floor across the three games. Additionally, his mobility and verticality provide an edge in pick-and-roll situations, where he excels over Embiid. Their contrasting styles offer head coach Steve Kerr a range of tactical options, allowing Team USA to adapt based on matchups and in-game circumstances.
Embiid's difficulties have been particularly pronounced when matched with the fast-paced, guard-driven style preferred by teammates like Tyrese Haliburton and Anthony Edwards. Opponents have also successfully exploited Embiid in drop coverage with floaters, taking advantage of the space around him. In contrast, Davis's agility and established chemistry with LeBron James, formed over five years with the Los Angeles Lakers, offer defensive and offensive stability.
The bench units for Team USA have thrived on their speed and athleticism, often changing the tempo of games. A notable frontcourt synergy between Davis and Bam Adebayo has been central to the success of these bench rotations. Davis expressed his readiness to contribute more significantly if needed, stating, “I'd be happy to play if I'm asked.”
Team USA benefits from an extraordinary margin for error stemming from their substantial talent pool, allowing for flexibility in rotation and strategy. Under the guidance of Steve Kerr, the team does not rely on any single player, which has equipped them to meet various in-game challenges robustly.
As Team USA continues to prepare for the 2024 Olympics, they remain focused on fostering cohesion and leveraging their collective talent. The addition of Joel Embiid, despite early hitches, underscores their ambition and strategic depth as they aim for Olympic glory.