Team USA’s dominant victory over Puerto Rico in the 2024 Olympics featured a memorable moment involving Philadelphia 76ers star Joel Embiid. As Team USA cruised to a 104-83 win, securing the top seed for the knockout round, Embiid found himself the center of attention, both for his performance and his antics.
Embiid 🤣🤣🤣 https://t.co/8LD91JSszI
— BricksCenter (@BricksCenter) August 3, 2024
The highlight of Embiid’s game came in the closing seconds when he decided to engage with the French crowd in Paris. With less than 10 seconds left and Team USA leading by more than 20 points, Embiid started taunting the crowd, asking for more boos. As the fans obliged, Embiid attempted a three-point shot from near half-court. The shot, however, resulted in an airball, much to the delight of the booing fans.
This moment was a classic example of Embiid’s playful personality and his willingness to engage with the crowd, even if it meant taking a less-than-ideal shot. His antics did not go unnoticed, sparking reactions from fans and analysts alike. Some appreciated his sense of humor and confidence, while others questioned the necessity of such a move in a game already decided.
Earlier in the game, Joel Embiid demonstrated his usual dominance with several key plays. He scored his first points with his patented turnaround midrange jumper and followed it up with a terrific block on Jose Alvarado.
In the second quarter, he had another impressive block on Ismael Romero. Throughout the game, Embiid maintained a playful demeanor, even holding his hand to his ear to hear the boos from the crowd better after scoring a basket.
Embiid, who returned to the starting lineup after sitting out the previous game against South Sudan, had a respectable game with 15 points, 3 rebounds, 2 assists, and 2 blocks on 6-of-14 shooting. Despite not being his most efficient performance, it was arguably his best showing with Team USA thus far. He led the starting five in scoring, trailing only Anthony Edwards, who put up 26 points.
Joel Embiid vs Puerto Rico
15 points
3 rebounds
2 assists
6/13 FG
2 blocks
+9
He’s arrived. pic.twitter.com/RrbkZIaQ21
— Aidan Doc 🧸 (@AidanDoc__) August 3, 2024
Team USA’s victory against Puerto Rico secured them the number one seed in the knockout stages, where they will face Brazil in the quarterfinals. As Team USA continues their quest for gold, Embiid’s playful yet dominant presence will be crucial.
His ability to balance performance with personality makes him a unique and valuable player for Team USA. Fans can expect more entertaining moments from Embiid as the tournament progresses.
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