Happy Monday! The 2024 Olympic Games have come to an end, and Philadelphia 76ers’ star Joel Embiid has secured a gold medal as the starting center for Team USA following a thrilling victory over France in the gold medal game. Let’s take a look back at Team USA’s journey, peek into the upcoming 2028 Olympic Games in Los Angeles, and explore an Eastern Conference dark horse for the upcoming 2024-25 season.
Joel Embiid’s Olympic Debut
Opting to represent Team USA, Embiid faced initial challenges in adjusting to the international game amidst some unfriendly crowds in Paris. Despite early adversities, Embiid’s standout performance came against Serbia in the semifinals, where he showcased his scoring prowess and defensive capabilities against Nikola Jokić. It was a pivotal moment where Embiid proved his mettle on the world stage.
Stephen Curry’s Olympic Dominance
Curry’s first foray into the Olympics culminated in an explosive showing that included a remarkable game against Serbia, where his sharpshooting prowess propelled Team USA to victory. The France game saw Curry further asserting his dominance, sealing the win with a remarkable display of three-point shooting.
Player Standouts in Free Agency
The Olympic platform also served as a stage for non-NBA players to make an impact, with notable performances from players like Guerschon Yabusele, Evan Fournier, and Bruno Caboclo catching the eye of NBA scouts.
Looking Ahead to 2028
As attention shifts towards the 2028 Olympics in Los Angeles, emerging talents like Tyrese Maxey are poised to make a mark on the international stage. With a crop of talented guards vying for spots on Team USA, the future looks bright for the red, white, and blue.
An Eastern Conference Sleeper
While established teams face uncertainties, the Charlotte Hornets stand out as a potential sleeper in the Eastern Conference. Led by dynamic young talent LaMelo Ball, the Hornets have the potential to surprise and secure a spot in the Play-In tournament amidst a shifting landscape in the conference.
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