Joel Embiid Makes Philadelphia 76ers History

Team USA clinched gold at the Olympics in Paris, riding on the back of some all-time great shooting from Steph Curry in the final against France. They have now won gold in five consecutive Olympic Games. In the process, Joel Embiid also made some Philadelphia 76ers history.

Embiid became the first active 76ers player to win an Olympic gold medal for Team USA. That is quite surprising when you consider the franchise's long and storied history.

Embiid played only 11 minutes in the final against France and finished with four points, two assists, three rebounds, and a steal to his name.

Embiid's decision to play for the United States sparked great discussion. He had the chance to represent France as well but did not take it up.

Embiid acquired French citizenship in 2022, which many had anticipated would drive him to play for France at the Paris Olympics.

Unsurprisingly, Embiid was booed heavily by the French fans in Paris. However, it is safe to say that his decision to wear the red, white, and blue of Team USA has paid off, as he is now an Olympic gold medalist.

Other notable players who have won Olympic gold medals and represented the 76ers include Charles Barkley, Andre Iguodala, James Harden, Jimmy Butler, Kyle Lowry, DeAndre Jordan, Jerami Grant, Jrue Holiday, and JaVale McGee.

However, they were not active members of the 76ers when they won their respective Olympic gold medals.

Barkley was traded to the Phoenix Suns just two months before the 1992 Olympics in Barcelona. Iguodala came even closer than that, as he was traded just two days before becoming Olympic champion.

Now the focus will turn to the upcoming NBA season. The 76ers are being considered title contenders after signing Paul George this summer.

A lot will depend on Embiid's availability as well. He struggled with fitness in the 2023-2024 season, appearing in only 39 regular season games. He did average an impressive 34.7 points, 5.6 assists and 11.0 rebounds while shooting a career-best 38.8% from three.

Related: 76ers' Joel Embiid Makes Steph Curry Claim as Team USA Wins Olympic Gold