When Joel Embiid chose to play for Team USA in the Paris Olympics, the decision did not sit well with people from his other two nationalities, France and Cameroon. And it was evident during every game as the home crowd filled the arena with boos whenever he touched the ball. Regardless, Embiid got the job done and fulfilled his dream of winning a gold medal to honor his son. But being the only medal winner hailing from Cameroon, his home country bestowed him with a huge honor even though he did not represent the nation in Paris. Sure enough, the move raised suspicion among fans as it came days after Joel’s shocking announcement.

Having won a gold medal with Team USA, Joel Embiid recently hinted at switching teams for the 2028 LA Olympics, “Paris is a great city and the next one is L.A. It might not be with Team USA; it might be with Cameroon.” Soon after the announcement, Joel landed in Cameroon and it turns out that he was there to receive the Medal of Commander of the Order of Valor from President Paul Biya.

This is one of the biggest honors a citizen can get as it is awarded to the ones who have made “exceptional contributions in the field of arts, science, commerce, or industry.” Filled with gratitude, Joel even addressed the people present at the ceremony in his native language and received a loud ovation from everyone. Yes, Joel has spent his entire adulthood in the USA. But his roots still reside in Cameroon as he was born in Yaounde and lived there for sixteen years. So, the Order of Valor holds a special place in his heart.

NBA World suspects hidden agenda behind Joel Embiid’s knighthood

While Embiid received the medal from the President of Cameroon, some fans believed that the timing of it was a bit suspicious. Sure enough, one fan wrote, “Tampering for the next Olympics already starting.” Yes, with Embiid hinting that he could play for Cameroon in the next Olympics and now getting honored by the nation, it seems like both parties have already laid the foundation for their future team-up.

Another fan shared the same sentiment and claimed that Cameroon did it so that he would choose them in 2028. Although Cameroon had six athletes representing them in Paris, none of them returned home with a medal. However, Joel could be the guy to bring glory to the nation the next time.

Meanwhile, another netizen was surprised at Cameroon’s gesture after Joel snubbed them to play for Team USA. France did not take Joel’s decision well and they let it be known during the Olympics. But Cameroon does not seem to have any problem with the former MVP’s decision.

Seeing Joel and Cameroon’s growing relationship, one fan suggested that France would be devastated as this would mean he would not choose to play for them in the next Olympics. After his win, many hoped to see him team up with Wembanyama and Gobert in France. But it does not look like that is going to happen.

Amid the speculations, one critical fan pointed out that Joel got the order of valor before he could reach the Conference finals in the NBA. Fans will continue to be critical of him until he can get playoff success. But it could finally happen this year with Paul George joining the Sixers.

Whatever the reason behind it, receiving the Order of Valor is a huge honor for Joel Embiid and he will surely take pride in it knowing that he brought joy to the people of his country. Does that mean he will play for Cameroon in 2028? We will have to wait and see.

Before you go, do not forget to check out this crossover between BG12 and Georgia Bulldogs star Asia Avinger