Hearing criticism is nothing new for Philadelphia 76ers superstar Joel Embiid, but the 2024 Paris Olympics vaulted the hate to another level.
He is not filling the box score to the public's standard, hearing boos when entering the stadium, and making comments that go viral across social media. It's time to add another name to the list of major sports figures who are tired of watching Embiid on the international stage.
Analyst Colin Cowherd recently ranted about his disappointments not only at the Olympics but also in Philadelphia.
"My eyes keep telling me this when I watch the Sixers. The Olympics just heightened this. Embiid really needs to stay closer to the basket. He fashions himself or is told that he is such an important part of perimeter basketball," Cowherd said. "He's big, he's aging, he's not as quick. I thought he literally got in the way of this offense."
While there's no denying Embiid can thrive on the interior with his size, the mid-range is what separates him from many big men around the NBA. His ability to nail shots from either elbow with little assistance from his teammates is often where he does the bulk of his scoring.
"I'm screaming at the TV, 'Get him out of the game!'" Cowherd exclaimed.
Cowherd is referencing the Olympics in the final part of his remark, where his request was fulfilled in Wednesday's game against South Sudan. He was a DNP-CD but is expected to rejoin the starting lineup Friday against Puerto Rico.
