LeBron James is aware of all the major moves that happen in the NBA. And most of the time, he has an active hand in it. Either directly or through Klutch Sports, he has the pulse of all the events. His friend Rich Paul is at the front and center of that venture. That is why LeBron’s answer to a question on Joel Embiid’s committing to Team USA came across as a surprise.

Team USA had a dismissal show in the FIBA World Cup. And the same cannot happen at the Paris Olympics. As they are gunning for their lost glory, a superstar addition like Joel Embiid is a godsend.

Just the Lakers.

Many superstars of the past and the present stay away from global tournaments to focus on the NBA. It demands that kind of discipline and focus to be in contention and to have an impactful season. This year, in-season tournaments are also being introduced, which will demand a higher level of intensity all throughout the season. Thus, LeBron is totally focused on his Laker duties. And when asked about being part of the Team USA, his answer was, ”I am going to keep the main thing the main thing.” Not only that, “he had no idea” that Joel Embiid had committed to the US Basketball team.

Not long ago, the ace sprinter Noah Lyles annoyed the NBA community with his “world champion of what comment.” Though many superstars, the likes of Kevin Durant, lashed out at him, Team USA putting up a dismal show in the FIBA World Cup came as a dampener. That is why the Paris Olympics team will rejoice in a player of Joel Embiid’s caliber.

Joel Embii’s Decision.

In 2022, Joel Embiid was granted French citizenship. He also has US citizenship. Regardless of which country the MVP plays for, he automatically makes them the favorite to win gold. As France wanted Joel to represent them, his choosing to play for the US shows his allegiance to America.

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The MVP has a lot riding on the Sixers‘ front, too. He can win gold in the Olympics, and yet for the Philly natives, it might not bring any joy at all. With much confusion and clamor, the 76ers are beginning their season. Other teams have re-tuned their rosters and have improved by leaps and bounds. But the Philadelphia team remains the same as last year.

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