USA’s Joel Embiid has shown resilience in the face of being booed, describing the reaction from the French crowd since the beginning of the Paris 2024 Olympics Men’s Basketball Event as a sign of love.
According to Basketnews, the crowd’s reaction to Embiid stems from his decision to represent Team USA instead of France, despite his earlier promise to French President Emmanuel Macron.
Also Read: Haaland Ready To Face Chelsea –Guardiola</strong>
Joel Embiid, who was benched during the US’s previous clash against South Sudan, returned to the court against Puerto Rico, which ended 104-83 in favor of the US.
Whenever Embiid received the ball or attempted a shot, he was heavily booed by the crowd in Lille. The former NBA MVP faced similar reactions during the first group-stage game against Serbia.
In the post-match interview, Embiid expressed that he was unfazed by the crowd’s booing.
“I’ve always loved it. At the end of the day, I think a lot of people see it as hate. I see it as love and respect. If I wasn’t a good basketball player, I wouldn’t receive that type of treatment,” Embiid said after the game.
“I see myself as being blessed, and that’s why I interact with them and with that type of crowd. I’m blessed to be here. I’ve seen worse. I’ve played in tougher environments, like both Gardens. It’s nothing I haven’t seen before,” he said, referring to Boston’s TD Garden and Madison Square Garden in New York.
However, the Philadelphia 76ers superstar noted that he has experienced worse treatment.
“In Philly, they boo their own guys more than the opponents. Sometimes, it feels like our fans are more against us when they’re supposed to be supporting us,” he said.
“Like I said, it’s all love because they want to push you and want you to do better. Just like with this crowd. I enjoy it because it makes me want to be better, do more, and do whatever it takes to win.”
By Dotun Omisakin
