Joel Embiid, who holds citizenship in the United States, France and Cameroon, ultimately elected to play for Team USA in the 2024 Paris Olympic Games. This decision sparked some criticism, particularly from French fans who showered Embiid with boos as he helped the United State claim another gold medal in Paris. The Team USA roster featured some elite NBA talent, including all-time great basketball superstar LeBron James.
Earlier this offseason, James signed a two-year contract with the Philadelphia 76ers — joining Embiid's team before his historic 24th NBA campaign. At 76ers media day, Embiid said he's glad his decision to play for Team USA "paid off." “I know a lot of people were mad about me playing at the Olympics, but I think it paid off with the man this year. So I guess other than win a gold medal for the US, we got the guy here," Embiid said.
In addition to James, the 76ers also landed Jaylen Brown in a blockbuster trade with the Eastern Conference-rival Boston Celtics earlier this offseason. Philadelphia's projected starting lineup now features James, Embiid, Brown, Tyrese Maxey and VJ Edgecombe. The 76ers will begin their 2026-27 NBA regular-season schedule with a matchup against the reigning-champion New York Knicks on Oct. 20.
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