When Joel Embiid announced his decision to join Team USA for the 2024 Olympics, it was a monumental gain for an already star-studded roster. As the reigning MVP and now a naturalized American citizen, Embiid's recruitment marked a new era for USA Basketball. However, the path to securing the superstar was fraught with complexities, including a fierce tug-of-war with France.
This international struggle for Embiid's allegiance took a dramatic turn when a letter allegedly written by Embiid to French President Emmanuel Macron, requesting French citizenship, leaked in April. French basketball figures were quick with their reactions. Frederic Weis went so far as to suggest that Embiid should be banned from entering France for the Olympics after he committed to Team USA. This intensified the spotlight on Embiid as he joined his new teammates in preparation for the Olympics.
The transition hasn't been smooth for Embiid. In his first exhibition game against Canada, Embiid fouled out, setting the stage for what would be a bumpy introduction to Team USA's system. Over the course of three exhibition games, he managed to score 23 points on 7-of-19 shooting—figures well below his NBA standards. Against Serbia, he posted the worst plus-minus of any American player who logged at least 10 minutes.
Critical to Team USA's strategy has been Anthony Davis, Embiid's backup. Davis, whose style has thrived under FIBA's lack of a defensive three-second rule and lenient goaltending restrictions, has been monumental on defense with six blocks against Serbia and a total of 12 blocks over three games. Offensively, Davis has been efficient, shooting 13-of-24 from the floor, providing a reliable alternative when Embiid has struggled.
Embiid's struggles can be partly attributed to adjusting to the fast-paced play preferred by Team USA guards like Tyrese Haliburton and Anthony Edwards. Opponents have frequently exploited Embiid's positioning, targeting him in drop coverage with floaters and taking advantage of the space around him. On the other hand, Davis's mobility and verticality have offered significant advantages in pick-and-roll situations, reinforcing his value to the team.
The established chemistry between Davis and LeBron James, formed over five successful years with the Los Angeles Lakers, adds another layer of synergy for Team USA. Davis and James share the longest tenure of any two players on Team USA, providing a foundation of experience and mutual understanding that bodes well for the team's dynamics.
Team USA's bench has also been a bright spot, capitalizing on speed and athleticism to dominate their opposition. The frontcourt pairing of Davis and Bam Adebayo has been instrumental to the bench's success, creating a formidable duo that balances defensive strength with offensive versatility.
Guiding this talent-laden squad is head coach Steve Kerr, who has adopted a flexible strategy that doesn't hinge on any single player. This adaptability allows the team to rotate players based on match-ups and in-game situations, a luxury afforded by the significant margin for error due to their collective talent advantage.
In the midst of these adjustments and strategic moves, Davis remains committed to playing whatever role is necessary for the team's success. “I'd be happy to play if I'm asked,” Davis stated, exemplifying the team-first mentality that Kerr and the coaching staff have been fostering.
As Team USA gears up for Olympic competition, the blend of star power, experience, and strategic depth will be crucial. With Embiid aiming to find his stride and Davis ready to step in whenever needed, Team USA's aspirations for Olympic glory seem well within reach.