The recruitment of Joel Embiid marked a significant moment for Team USA as they aim to bolster their roster for the 2024 Olympics. A reigning MVP and newly naturalized American citizen, Embiid's addition was a strategic move in the competitive landscape of international basketball.
Embiid’s path to joining Team USA wasn’t without its drama. In a twist worthy of a spy novel, a letter allegedly written by Embiid to French President Emmanuel Macron, requesting citizenship, leaked back in April. This sparked a competitive tug-of-war between the United States and France, with both nations eager to secure him for their Olympic campaigns. In the aftermath, Frederic Weis, a former French basketball player, even suggested that Embiid be banned from entering France during the Olympics.
Despite the high stakes and expectations surrounding his decision, Embiid has faced challenges integrating into Team USA’s lineup. In his first exhibition game against Canada, he fouled out, underscoring the adjustment period still ahead of him. Over three exhibition games, he has managed just 23 points on 7-of-19 shooting. Embiid also posted the worst plus-minus of any American who logged at least 10 minutes in a game against Serbia, revealing some struggles in adapting to international play.
Enter Anthony Davis, Embiid’s backup on Team USA, who has demonstrated why he is an essential cog in the team’s machinery. Davis has been a defensive stalwart, racking up six blocks against Serbia and totaling an impressive 12 blocks over three games. The lack of a defensive three-second rule and more lenient goaltending restrictions by FIBA have played to Davis’s strengths, allowing him to thrive in the international setting. Offensively, Davis is shooting an efficient 13-of-24 from the floor over those same three games.
Davis’s mobility and vertical leap have offered Team USA a crucial advantage in pick-and-roll situations, a role that complements his established chemistry with LeBron James. Their five-year tenure with the Los Angeles Lakers translates into a seamless on-court understanding, which Davis reflected on when he stated, “I'd be happy to play if I'm asked.” Their long-standing partnership is the longest of any two players on the current Team USA roster.
The dynamic and adaptable strategy of Team USA has been another highlight. Under the guidance of head coach Steve Kerr, the team does not rely on any single player, opting instead for a fluid approach that adapts based on match-ups and in-game situations. This flexibility is vital given the talent-laden roster, which allows a significant margin for error.
The bench unit of Team USA, anchored by the frontcourt pairing of Davis and Bam Adebayo, has thrived on speed and athleticism. This versatility has been central to their success, providing a robust defense and quick transitions, keeping opponents on their toes.
Despite Embiid's initial struggles with the pace favored by guards like Tyrese Haliburton and Anthony Edwards, Team USA has displayed resilience and readiness to overcome these hurdles. Opponents have targeted Embiid in drop coverage with floaters, successfully exploiting the space around him. However, Davis's strengths in mobility and verticality are hoped to compensate for these gaps, offering more agility in defensive plays.
As the team prepares for the next phases in their journey, the focus remains on building chemistry and adapting strategies to leverage their collective talent. With Davis expressing his willingness to step up whenever needed, Team USA aims to navigate the challenges ahead with an eye on potential Olympic success.
The journey toward Olympic glory is fraught with challenges, but with key players like Davis and the strategic acumen of Steve Kerr at the helm, Team USA is well-poised to contend at the highest level. The roadmap ahead may be complex, yet the talent and depth of the team provide a firm foundation for their aspirations.