Joel Embiid, the dominant force for the Philadelphia 76ers and the 2022-23 NBA MVP, finds himself in unfamiliar territory at the 2024 Paris Olympics. As a member of Team USA, the Cameroonian-born superstar is no longer the go-to player, a role he’s thrived in for years. Instead, Embiid is adjusting to being a part of a star-studded roster where he’s not the primary option. Despite the potential challenge this shift could pose, Embiid has openly expressed his enjoyment in taking a back seat.
Embracing the Change:
“In the NBA, I’m used to being the guy. Now, you gotta give it up, so I’m loving it,” Embiid shared, via BasketNews. This statement, highlighted by @legionhoops, underscores a significant transformation for a player who has consistently been the centerpiece of his NBA team. The adaptation process, however, appears to be one Embiid is welcoming.
Joel Embiid on Team USA:
“In the NBA, I’m used to being the guy. Now, you gotta give it up, so I’m loving it.”
(via @BasketNews_com) pic.twitter.com/JZn17Kng9S— Legion Hoops (@LegionHoops) July 30, 2024
In Team USA’s opening game against Serbia, Embiid had a subdued performance, scoring only four points and grabbing two rebounds. His shooting stats were less than stellar: 2-for-5 from the field, 0-for-1 from beyond the arc, and 0-for-3 from the free-throw line. Despite this, his contribution wasn’t critical as Kevin Durant and LeBron James took the reins, scoring 23 and 21 points respectively, leading the team to a commanding 110-84 victory.
Kendrick Perkins’ Advice for Embiid:
Former NBA champion Kendrick Perkins weighed in on Embiid’s situation, offering sage advice. Perkins emphasized the opportunity Joel Embiid has to learn from the elite players around him on Team USA. “So, now he’s around greatness. He’s around Kevin Durant, he’s around Steph Curry, he’s around LeBron James, and now he’s able to be around greatness and see how those guys, who are the ultimate professionals, do it on a day-to-day basis,” Perkins stated.
Perkins encouraged Embiid to take a page from Anthony Edwards’ playbook. Edwards, another rising star, has embraced his role on a talented team and utilized the chance to grow. “At the end of the day, he needs to take a page out of Anthony Edwards’ book and see how Anthony Edwards is embracing that role of being around greatness, and Joel Embiid needs to follow,” Perkins added.
A Learning Experience:
Joel Embiid’s transition from the primary star in Philadelphia to a supporting role on Team USA offers a unique learning curve. Despite his accolades, including being a five-time All-Star and the league MVP, Embiid has yet to lead the 76ers to an Eastern Conference finals. This stint with Team USA could provide him with valuable insights and lessons from some of the NBA’s greatest players.
Embiid’s upcoming season with the 76ers will also see him sharing touches with another NBA star, Paul George. This dynamic could further test his ability to adapt and thrive in a team-oriented environment. Perkins’ advice underscores the potential benefits of this Olympic experience for Embiid’s growth, suggesting that exposure to different playing styles and approaches could unlock new dimensions in his game.
“When you commit to something, especially like playing for Team USA, you don’t take that lightly.” 😤 @KendrickPerkins on what Joel Embiid can learn from playing in Paris to improve his game 📈 pic.twitter.com/Pgjw8gfZmi— NBA on ESPN (@ESPNNBA) July 29, 2024
Joel Embiid’s willingness to adapt to a lesser role on Team USA speaks volumes about his maturity and understanding of the game. While it might be a difficult adjustment for many stars, Embiid’s positive attitude and openness to learning from his teammates could significantly benefit both his Olympic performance and his future with the 76ers. The presence of veterans like Durant, James, and Curry offers Embiid a rare chance to absorb knowledge and refine his approach.
Perkins’ advice is particularly poignant. Anthony Edwards‘ example illustrates how embracing a supporting role among greats can lead to substantial personal and professional growth. For Embiid, this Olympic experience is more than just a quest for gold; it’s an opportunity to evolve as a player and leader. As he prepares for the upcoming NBA season, the lessons learned in Paris could be the key to finally breaking through the postseason barriers with the 76ers.
Comments