The whole Paris Olympics campaign was like a redemption arc for Joel Embiid, who faced constant boos from fans every time he held the ball. And this was not only limited to the Parisians. Rather, some of his very own people from the NBA fraternity criticized him for his sluggishness and missed chances. However, in the quarter-final, he suddenly shifted his gears and strengthened his foothold on both ends of the ring. It couldn’t be termed as match-defining like Steph Curry. However, his performances in the last two games surely justified his MVP tag. Well, it seems like Embiid used some legendary company to get his game back on track for Team USA.

NFL legend Tom Brady visited Team USA House in Paris, on the last day of his trip, ahead of the hoopers’ QF against Brazil. Surprisingly, he got to meet a bunch of Team USA athletes, including Derrick White, Jayson Tatum, Jrue Holiday, LeBron James, and Anthony Davis. However, the only one who received a couple of sneaky words from him was Joel Embiid. As Tom shook hands with the Sixer with an embracing side hug, the NFL legend mumbled, via his Paris vlog on YouTube, “What you doing out here?”

Considering all the hate that Joel Embiid received on-court and off-court, it seemed like a cheeky remark to make. It was worth noting that ‘the Embiid narrative’ during the Paris Olympics was so popular that even Tom Brady had an idea about what was going on.

Joel Embiid seemed to be smiling there, but it might have been an eye-opening experience for him as well. He’s yet to comment about the same. However, from that moment on, the Sixer turned his gameplay around and it was very evident from his performances ahead.

From no points to double digits: Joel Embiid’s turnaround after meeting Tom Brady

Meeting Tom Brady, the critic, might not be something that Joel Embiid expected in the Olympics. However, it happened, and maybe that comment wouldn’t have sounded that way if it wasn’t for his poor performance. It seems magical from today’s perspective, as The Process’ contributions did not remain the same. In the quarter-finals against Brazil, he scored 14 points, 7 rebounds, and an assist in about 12 minutes of playtime. It was a fair growth in Embiid’s play since the pool games started.

The Sixers star took it up another notch as he scored 19 points against Serbia, along with 4 rebounds and 2 assists. It was a class performance from Joel Embiid that day, proving his 2023 NBA MVP status. Also, on the intangible end, he shut down Nikola Jokic when Team USA against Serbia, limiting him only to 17 points. Against Victor Wembanayama and France, it was an offensive battle where he did not get to do much, as he only scored 4 points with 3 rebounds and two assists in 11 minutes of court time.

Do you think Tom Brady’s subtle words might have instilled the confidence and winning spirit in Joel Embiid? Was it The Process himself or Tom Brady, the critic, responsible for the change? Comment with your thoughts.

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