The recent recruitment of reigning NBA MVP Joel Embiid stands as a significant coup for Team USA, fortifying their roster ahead of the 2024 Olympics. Embiid, now a naturalized American citizen, brings immense talent to an already stellar lineup, but his journey to don the red, white, and blue was anything but straightforward. A competitive tug-of-war ensue between Team USA and France, culminating in a high-profile decision that even involved an alleged letter from Embiid to French President Emmanuel Macron leaked in April. The decision has stirred emotions, with former French player Frederic Weis suggesting that Embiid be banned from entering France for the Olympic Games.
Embiid’s initial exhibition performances have revealed an adjustment period as he acclimates to Team USA's style of play. In his first exhibition against Canada, Embiid fouled out, an unexpected turn for the NBA's most prestigious player. Across three games, Embiid amassed 23 points, shooting 7-of-19, and logged the worst plus-minus of any American who played at least 10 minutes in the matchup against Serbia. The early struggles highlight a disconnect, particularly with the pace and style favored by the team’s guards, Tyrese Haliburton and Anthony Edwards.
While Embiid adjusts, Anthony Davis steps in as his backup, showcasing an impressive defensive presence. Davis recorded six blocks against Serbia alone and has accumulated a total of 12 blocks through three games. The FIBA's lenient defensive three-second rule and goaltending restrictions play right into Davis's forte, allowing him to maximize his rim protection capabilities. Offensively, Davis has been efficient, shooting 13-of-24 from the floor over the same period.
Davis’s mobility and verticality offer a distinct advantage in pick-and-roll situations, a notable difference from Embiid's current transition phase. Opponents have targeted Embiid’s drop coverage with floaters, exploiting the space around him—a vulnerability Davis’s agility and defensive instincts help mitigate. Furthermore, Davis and LeBron James bring an unmatched chemistry to Team USA, honed over five years with the Los Angeles Lakers, the longest tenure of any two players on the roster.
The synergy between Davis and future Hall-of-Famer LeBron James has translated into success for Team USA's bench groups, which have thrived on speed and athleticism. The frontcourt pairing of Davis and Bam Adebayo has been crucial to this success, infusing the bench with energy and defensive prowess.
Heading the coaching staff, Steve Kerr leverages this talent advantage, implementing a strategy not reliant on a single player but adaptable to match-ups and in-game situations. “I’d be happy to play if I’m asked,” Davis stated, underscoring a readiness to step up whenever needed, a testament to the team's depth and his experience.
Team USA is geared up for the challenges ahead, preparing to vie for Olympic glory once again. Their sheer talent affords them a considerable margin for error, a luxury in international basketball. As Embiid continues to find his footing and the rest of the roster, led by stalwarts like Davis and James, syncs further, the potential for greatness seems limitless. All eyes will be on how this meticulously constructed team performs on the world’s biggest stage come 2024.