Philadelphia 76ers Joel Embiid Commits To Play for Team USA at 2024 Paris Olympics

Philadelphia 76ers center and reigning NBA MVP Joel Embiid has committed to play for Team USA at the 2024 Paris Olympics, according to reports from ESPN's Ramona Shelburne and The Athletic's Shams Charania.

The former Kansas standout could have chosen the U.S. -- a country he has lived in since the age of 16 -- Cameroon, or France. Embiid was born in Cameroon and holds citizenship in both the U.S. and France as well.

Embiid had previously expressed interest in competing at Paris 2024, but at Philadelphia's media day on Monday, he said he had not yet decided which country he would play with. When it came time to choose, Embiid took a family-first approach.

"It was tough," Embiid said after practice on Thursday. "I've really wanted to participate in the Olympics, that's been a goal and a dream of mine. You add that with the fact that my son is American, and I've been here for such a long time. I feel like for the past few years since he's been born, every decision is just based on family."

He informed USA executive director Grant Hill of his decision on Thursday morning. The two reportedly met for over an hour earlier in the week.

Embiid was named the 2022-23 NBA MVP after he led the league in scoring at 33.1 points to go along with 10.2 rebounds, and 4.2 assists per game. The 7-foot All Star will bring size and defense to a Team USA that struggled with both in the FIBA World Cup this summer.

Kevin Durant has also committed to playing for Team USA, while fellow NBA stars Jayson Tatum, LeBron James, and Steph Curry have flagged their intent to join.

Shelburne reported Embiid was "inspired" to join those greats on the same side in the pursuit of a gold medal.