76ers’ Joel Embiid Plans to Play for Team USA at 2024 Olympics After Knee Injury

Paul KasabianFeatured Columnist IIFebruary 29, 2024

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Philadelphia 76ers center Joel Embiid, who is currently out with an injured lateral meniscus in his left knee, told reporters that he still plans to play for Team USA at the 2024 Sumer Olympics in Paris if he feels well enough to do so.

Embiid hasn’t played since Jan. 30. After undergoing successful surgery on Feb. 6, the 76ers announced that Embiid would be reevaluated in four weeks.

Per ESPN’s Tim Bontemps, Embiid added he feels good but doesn’t have a timeline for a return. He hopes to return sometime this season, however.

He had three options and ultimately announced his decision to play for Team USA last September.

“I love all three options, you know, with my home country, which I love a lot,” Embiid said. “But I really want to participate in the Olympics, that’s been my goal and my dream. And you add that with the fact that my son is American, and I’ve been here for such a long time. … I’m really thankful for the opportunity. France — the commitment they were willing to make — I really appreciate it. It was a tough decision.”

In 34 appearances, Embiid is averaging 35.3 points, 11.3 rebounds and 5.7 assists per game this season.

For now, though, Embiid is rehabbing in hopes of rejoining the 76ers and leading them on a deep postseason run.