The Paris Olympics have not been a warm embrace for Philadelphia 76ers star Joel Embiid, but that hasn’t stopped him from shining on the court at the right time.
Embiid’s decision to play for Team USA instead of France, for whom he had lobbied for citizenship, has not endeared him to the French fans. However, the big man is unfazed by the cold reception, seeing it as a sign of respect rather than hate.
“I’ve always loved it,” Embiid said of the jeers he receives from the crowd. “If I wasn’t an OK basketball player, I would not receive that type of treatment.”
Despite being a lightning rod for criticism, Embiid’s teammates have helped him stay positive and focused. The Cameroonian-born center has found support and camaraderie among his fellow NBA players, which has helped him navigate the challenges of playing in a hostile environment.
While Embiid may claim to see the boos as a form of love, there is no denying the impact they have on him. The All-Star has acknowledged that he is one of the most polarizing figures in the NBA, but he is learning to channel that negativity into fuel for his game.
As the road to basketball greatness continues for Embiid, he remains determined to prove his worth on the court, one game at a time. The hostility he faces only fuels his fire, pushing him to new heights and turning those frowns upside down.
