Team USA is sending what many consider to be one of the most stacked Olympic basketball teams since the iconic “Dream Team” of 1992.
However, despite the high expectations, first-time Olympian Joel Embiid recently expressed significant concerns about the squad’s prospects.
In a candid interview, Embiid pointed out that while the team features notable players like LeBron James, their current form isn’t what it once was. “LeBron now is not the LeBron that was a couple of years ago. So it’s a big difference,” Embiid remarked, highlighting his worry that the age and declining performance of key players could impact the team’s effectiveness.
Despite these concerns, LeBron James demonstrated his enduring value by rescuing Team USA in their recent exhibition game against South Sudan. James took charge in the second half and nailed a clutch game-winning layup, preventing what could have been one of the biggest upsets in international basketball history.
Embiid’s comments sparked a lively discussion on ESPN’s First Take, where Stephen A. Smith weighed in.
Although Smith acknowledged that Embiid’s concerns were “fair,” he criticized the timing and intent behind them, accusing Embiid of “managing expectations,” which he felt was inappropriate for such a talented team.
“I think it’s fair, I just think…it’s like he’s managing expectations and I don’t like it,” Smith stated. “LeBron James is sensational. LeBron James is so incredible for the game of basketball because remember the man’s brilliance can’t be denied. But it’s not just as a basketball player, it’s as a businessman, it’s as an ambassador. When we want stars, we want what LeBron James gives us. It’s the bright lights, it’s the marquee, it’s knowing that you’re the guy everybody’s coming to see and you answer the call. That is what superstars are made of.”
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Smith further argued that Embiid lacks the credentials to make such judgments, pointing out that despite Embiid’s immense talent, he has yet to achieve significant postseason success. “Joel Embiid is in the conversation as one of the greatest talents as a big man we have ever seen in the history of basketball. But he’s 0-5 lifetime in conference semifinal appearances. He’s never been to a conference finals. He’s never been to a finals.”
Smith continued, emphasizing the importance of focusing on the goal rather than creating distractions. “You’re going for the gold. I don’t want to hear all that,” he asserted, suggesting that Embiid should concentrate on contributing to the team’s success instead of voicing doubts.
As Team USA prepares for their final tune-up game against Germany before heading to Paris, there’s speculation that Embiid might receive a pep talk to avoid further unnecessary distractions—a conversation reminiscent of the one Anthony Edwards had after declaring himself the top option on the team, which sparked internal debates.
With the stakes high and the spotlight on them, Team USA will need to unite and leverage their collective talent to pursue their fifth-straight Olympic gold medal.
