Joel · Embiid commented that the United States team got more hype than they deserved, which caused quite a storm ahead of the Paris Olympics. The Philadelphia 76ers superstar said in an interview with The New York Times magazine that some of his teammates are "older." He cites 39-year-old LeBron · James as an example.
The Process explains that despite James' consistent dominance, the four-time NBA MVP is "not the same as it was many years ago." Embiid added that the United States may be overrated because some people are "not what they used to be."
Kevin · Durant, who will turn 36 in September, had this to say about Joel · Embiid, with Joe · Walden writing on The Athletic:
"Of course, we are older and we all have mileage in our bodies. But we'll find ways to be more efficient, just like Joel, who has been through injuries. ”
"The great thing is that you're constantly adapting and looking for what works."
Kevin Durant also defended LeBron James:
"He's not running and jumping like he did when he was 25 or 26, but he's still jumping high and running fast."
According to the same report by Walden, the United States team has six players on the roster who are at least 30 years old, including Joel · Embiid. 36-year-old Stephen · Curry also gave his opinion on the issue:
'It's a five-man team [on the pitch at the same time], so you have to put everybody together.'
The Golden State Warriors superstar is right. Young or old, overrated or not, United States must unite to win their fifth gold medal.
The United States team has been together for a few weeks now and continues to train. Joel · Embiid and his team were almost embarrassed by South Sudan and Germany in back-to-back games. The interview was published at the worst possible time.
Steve · Cole will rely heavily on the United States' veteran players
United States coach Steve · Kerr has no hesitation in leaning on LeBron · James and Stephen · Curry. He may have the most depth and talent in the squad, but he doesn't hesitate to put these two players together when it matters most.
Kerr also added Joel · Embiid to his roster. The Golden State Warriors ball-handler called the trio his only guaranteed starters. The remaining two positions in the starting five may still be changing throughout the Games.
If Kevin · Durant are healthy enough, Steve · Kerr will also rely on him. If Durant is given permission to play, Kerr will undoubtedly give him playing time.
Jrue Holiday is likely to start regularly as well, even if he isn't named to start. Cole worked with him in Japan three years ago and valued his impact on both offensive and defensive ends. United States can start every game with a lineup with an average age of over 30 per game.
Embiid's comments are right to some extent. Team United States may be old, but Steve · Cole will ride his veteran superstar tail to success or failure.
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