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[Saba Sports News] Joel Embiid is adjusting to the shift from NBA star to Olympic team player, sharing the challenge of giving up the ball and letting go of his ego.
“In the NBA, I’m used to being the guy. Now, you gotta give it up, so I’m loving it,” Embiid said via Basket News.
At 30, Embiid has been Philadelphia’s standout player since his breakout season in 2017-18, with career averages of 27.9 points, 11.2 rebounds, and 1.7 blocks per game. Despite his dominance, the 76ers have struggled in the playoffs, cycling through stars like Ben Simmons, Jimmy Butler, James Harden, and Paul George, with Embiid always leading the charge.
Now, as one of many superstars on Team USA, Embiid is learning to be patient with his shot and play within the game’s flow. This new role as a sidekick is a significant adjustment for him. So far, the results have been mixed. He scored 4 points against Serbia, shooting 2-5, while his matchup, Nikola Jokic, scored 20 points in 31 minutes. This summer will test Embiid, but he has already impressed his co-star, Tyrese Maxey.