In a significant decision for international basketball, NBA superstar Joel Embiid has chosen to represent Team USA in the Paris Olympics over his other options, including France and his homeland, Cameroon. The reigning NBA MVP and scoring champion made his choice public after more than a year of contemplation, revealing that his decision was influenced by his son’s American heritage.

“I’ve been here for such a long time,” said Embiid during the Philadelphia 76ers’ training camp in Fort Collins, Colorado. “For the past few years, every decision I’ve made has been based on just family. My family, my son, and having the chance to represent a country like the U.S., with my son being born here … I love my home country, but I really wanted to play in the Olympics.”

France had set an October 10 deadline for Embiid to make his Olympic plans clear, and he expressed appreciation for the interest shown by the French team. However, the lure of representing the United States proved irresistible for the 76ers’ star. Follow your favourite Basketball team with attractive betting odds from Nextbet, one of the best basketball gambling sites.

Team USA’s managing director, Grant Hill, expressed excitement about Embiid’s decision, acknowledging the ongoing conversations about the player’s goals. The official USA Basketball team for the Paris Olympics will not be named until the spring of 2024, but if Embiid remains healthy, he is almost certain to secure one of the coveted spots on the roster.

Embiid’s choice to represent the United States adds another formidable talent to an already star-studded list of NBA players planning to participate in the Paris Olympics, including Stephen Curry, Kevin Durant, LeBron James, Bam Adebayo, and Devin Booker.

Embiid, who became a U.S. citizen last year, could have opted for France or even Cameroon if it qualified for the Paris Games. However, the decision to don the red, white, and blue was a significant recruiting win for Team USA.

As Embiid prepares to focus on the upcoming NBA season with the 76ers, his choice to play for Team USA sets the stage for an exciting Olympic competition in Paris, where the U.S. will aim for a fifth consecutive gold medal. Get the latest updates from the world of basketball only on Nextbet Sports.