Philadelphia 76ers superstar Joel Embiid is preparing to play in the 2024 Paris Olympics by focusing on his level of play rather than the threat of others.
At Team USA’s training camp, Embiid was asked about facing three-time MVP Nikola Jokic and Serbia, to which he replied: “I don’t care about Jokic. I’m playing for my national team,” Embiid said. “It’s about focusing on ourselves and making sure everyone is on the same page, but right now it’s about finding ways to get better.”
Joel Embiid on facing Nikola Jokic in the group stage when the U.S. and Serbia meet at the Olympics: “I don’t care about Jokic. I’m playing for my national team.” image.twitter.com/170FJFbqcs
— Justin Russo (@FlyByKnite) July 8, 2024
Embiid’s response likely wasn’t meant as a disrespect toward Jokic, but rather simply to point out that Team USA isn’t concerned about certain opponents.
The United States is considered the heavy favorite to take home the gold medal thanks to a roster full of superstar talent, including Embiid, LeBron James, Stephen Curry and Kevin Durant. Meanwhile, Serbia has NBA talent surrounding Jokic, such as Bogdan Bogdanovic and Nikola Jovic, but it likely won’t be enough to upset the loaded U.S. team.
