France’s Boos Echo as Joel Embiid and Team USA Clash for Olympic Basketball Gold

PARIS, France — Joel Embiid silenced critics in style on Thursday night. His response to relentless heckling from French fans came on the basketball court, proving why he chose to represent the U.S. in the Paris Olympics.

In a thrilling 95-91 comeback victory over Serbia, Embiid was instrumental. As one of only two U.S. players left on the court at the end, he celebrated with an emphatic dance, raising his arms triumphantly and performing WWE-style crotch chops while teammate Anthony Edwards watched.

Embiid’s performance was a direct reply to his doubters. Scoring 19 points, grabbing four rebounds, and blocking a shot, he led his team to victory over Serbia and its star player, Nikola Jokic. His efforts propelled the U.S. to the gold-medal match against France, which will take place on Saturday.

Despite the criticism and taunting from French fans, Embiid remains focused. “I don’t care. The job is to win the gold,” he stated confidently. While he acknowledged his love for France and its people, Embiid made it clear that the criticism was merely part of the sport.

On an evening when the U.S. team struggled, Embiid’s presence was vital. Stephen Curry was the only player initially finding his shot, but Embiid’s crucial plays kept the team competitive. With the U.S. trailing seven points and just over seven minutes left, Embiid hit a short jumper, followed by a three-point play, and then another fadeaway shot over Jokic, helping to narrow the gap.

His teamwork shone through during the final minutes. Noting that Jokic played off him, Embiid set a screen for Curry, who then made his ninth three-pointer, pushing the U.S. into the lead for good. Kevin Durant praised Embiid, saying, “He showed why he’s one of the greatest ever to touch a basketball.”

Attention now turns to the upcoming final against France. Embiid will likely face a matchup against 20-year-old French star Victor Wembanyama. The U.S. team has enjoyed support from international fans throughout the tournament, but the final at Bercy Arena is expected to have a heavily French crowd.

Embiid expressed his determination, emphasizing that his ultimate goal is to win the gold medal. “It’s all about one goal, and that’s winning the gold,” he remarked. The U.S. aims to claim its fifth consecutive Olympic gold medal, with Embiid’s contributions proving crucial in the quest.