Joel Embiid has the possibility to become a naturalized French citizen, thus also opening the chance of him playing for the French National Team. But according to an interview with BasketInfos, San Antonio Spurs' Tony Parker is against the idea.
“I think you have to play the national team with the players who are from the country, who grew up there, all that.
“For me it's just a matter of principle. Because, Joel Embiid is a good guy. I only heard good things about him. I spoke with Timothy [Luwawu-Cabarrot, who plays with Embiid], and he's a great guy. He laughs, he speaks French, all that. It's nothing against him. It's just a matter of principle.”
But the French guard clarified that it wasn't personal. In fact, he proceeded to compliment Embiid's skills and impact on the game.
“Joel Embiid, I love him as a player. He's amazing, what he's doing in a short time, I think that's the future, and he can become the best pivot of the NBA.”
Indeed, in terms of skills alone, Embiid is a worthy basketball player for a national team. He has just been declared as a starter for the newly-formatted NBA All-Star Game, joining the likes of LeBron James and Stephen Curry. It's good company.
The 76ers center is averaging 23.9 points, 11 rebounds and 3.5 assists per game. He is leading his team in a playoff push, as the team sits as the 8th seed in the East with a 21-20 record.
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