Team USA’s blowout victory over Puerto Rico was highlighted by Kevin Durant becoming Team USA’s all-time leading scorer.
Durant's record, along with Anthony Edwards’ superstar outing, overshadowed the play of Philadelphia 76ers’ Joel Embiid. After sitting all of Wednesday’s matchup against South Sudan, the star center returned to the starting lineup.
He finished the day with a respectable 15 points, 3 rebounds, 2 assists, and 2 blocks on 6 of 14 shooting. While it wasn't the most efficient game, it was arguably the best of Embiid's with Team USA. The 30-year-old led the starting five in scoring, coming second only to Edwards' 26.
He wrapped up the matchup in classic fashion, asking for boos from the crowd in Paris with less than 10 seconds left. He proceeded to attempt a shot from near half court once pressure came, despite the more than 20-point lead. The three-point shot was an airball.
There’s nobody quite like Joel Embiid lol pic.twitter.com/QROV7LjcWa
— Josh Reynolds (@JoshReynolds24) August 3, 2024
Numerous analysts, including Kendrick Perkins and Colin Cowherd, were critical of Embiid at the Olympics prior to this matchup. Neither has spoken on the improved play yet.
"I like the role Embiid played today, to be honest with you, I'm being serious," Perkins said on the Road Trippin' Show. "Do you think Team USA could go and win the gold without Joel Embiid playing another minute in the games? Joel Embiid is still hobbling up the floor, still needs to get in shape."
This victory secured Team USA the top seed in the knockout round, where they will face Brazil on Tuesday.
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