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Over the past year, Joel Embiid has been highly sought from multiple national teams for the 2024 Summer Olympics. After deciding to play for the United States, one former medalist took a shot at the reigning NBA MVP.
Back in the summer of 2022, Embiid was granted French citizenship. This opened the door for him to potentially play for Team France in Olympics. Not long after, the All-Star center also received citizenship in the United States.
At first, Embiid did not know which country he was going to represent on the national stage. However, he ended picking the U.S. He is now set to join a star-studded roster that includes players like LeBron james, Kevin Durant and Steph Curry.
After this decision to play for the United States, former French player Fred Weis. He feels slighted by Joel Embiid's decision, and thinks it wasn't right for those are who trying to gain French citizenship.
“I consider this boy a great player as much as he is a dirty guy," Weis said. "I hate him for the things that he did. I think he doesn’t have any respect for France and also for all the people who are asking for a French passport and don’t get it."
Weis won a silver medal with France in the 2000 Summer Olympics. He had a chance to play in the NBA, but ended up turning down the opportunity. After playing for the New York Knicks in the Summer League in 1999, Weis opted to return overseas.
Joel Embiid explains why he picked Team USA for the 2024 Summer Olympics
France and the United States are two of the top teams in men's international play, leaving Joel Embiid with a tough decision. Not long after he made his choice, the Philadelphia 76ers star explained his thought process.
Part of why Embiid got his U.S. citizenship was because it's where his son was born. While talking to USA Today about his Olympic choice, he cited his family as one of the major factors.
"My family, my son, and having the chance to represent a country like the U.S. and my son being born here," Embiid said. "Like I said, I love my home country, but ultimately, I really want to play in the Olympics. I love all three options."
While he didn't end up picking France, Joel Embiid was still grateful for the opportunity they presented to him.
"I’m really thankful for the opportunity," he continued. "France made the commitment that they were willing to make, I really appreciate it. It was a tough decision."
Siding with France would have meant the opportunity to play alongside two of the NBA's impactful big men. Their Olympic roster is expected to be headlined by Rudy Gobert and Victor Wembanyama.
