Joel Embiid’s debut for Team USA was less than ideal. In a warm-up game against Canada, Embiid struggled to showcase his skills, managing only 5 points, 6 rebounds, 2 assists, and 4 turnovers. In just 12 minutes, he fouled out with 6 fouls. This performance fell short of expectations, especially since Embiid was a starting player for Team USA.
Why Did Embiid Perform Poorly?
Embiid’s decision to join Team USA was significant. He chose to represent the United States instead of Cameroon or France, where he also has citizenship. After his last game for the 76ers several months ago, fans expected Embiid to have recovered from his injury-plagued season and become a key player for Team USA’s frontcourt.
Pre-Game Expectations
Many anticipated that Embiid would dominate against a Canadian team lacking height. The Canadian centers, Dwight Powell, Khem Birch, and Kelly Olynyk, were expected to struggle against Embiid’s physicality. However, Embiid’s troubles were evident from the start.
Early Struggles
Team USA tried to get Embiid involved early by giving him opportunities both on the perimeter and in the low post. However, he struggled to score from the outside and couldn’t convert in the post either.
Analysis of Embiid’s Challenges
Analysts suggest that Embiid’s struggles stemmed from his playing style. He often relies on drawing fouls and getting to the free-throw line. In this game, he couldn’t adapt to the physicality, not due to the Canadian team or FIBA’s style, but because he couldn’t leverage his physical advantages.
Physicality and Fouls
Standing 7 feet tall and weighing 280 pounds, Embiid is one of the most physically imposing athletes in the Olympics. However, his inability to use this advantage effectively led to 5 fouls in just 12 minutes. This differs from the NBA, where 6 fouls result in a disqualification.
Lack of Rhythm
Failing to find his rhythm early affected Embiid throughout the game. With the 76ers, Embiid heavily relies on free throws and strong starts. Despite playing only 39 games last season, he led the league with 10.2 free-throw attempts per game and 11.4 first-quarter points per game.
Unusual Performance
In this game, Embiid didn’t get to the free-throw line early or find his rhythm, leading to an unusual performance. This exhibition game marked Embiid’s first appearance since the playoff game on May 2nd, following multiple injuries and health issues during the NBA 2023-24 season and playoffs.
Looking Forward
Fortunately, this was only an exhibition game. As Embiid regains his form, Team USA will likely prioritize getting him into the game early. His presence could be crucial in the quest for gold, especially against players like Nikola Jokic, Giannis Antetokounmpo, Rudy Gobert, and Victor Wembanyama.
Conclusion
Joel Embiid’s debut for Team USA did not go as planned, but it offers valuable lessons. As he continues to adjust and recover, both he and Team USA can work on leveraging his strengths to ensure better performances in future games.
Summary of Embiid’s Performance:
| Statistic | Value |
|---|---|
| Points | 5 |
| Rebounds | 6 |
| Assists | 2 |
| Turnovers | 4 |
| Fouls | 6 (fouled out) |
| Minutes Played | 12 |
With these improvements, Embiid and Team USA can hope for better outcomes in the upcoming games.(FADA888)