The 2024 offseason has been a summer of triumphs for Joel Embiid, a renowned alumnus of The Rock’s basketball program.
Just over a year after being crowned the NBA’s Most Valuable Player, Embiid added more accolades to his impressive resume, including an Olympic gold medal and a lucrative contract extension with the Philadelphia 76ers.
Embiid’s Golden Olympics
The 7-footer made his Olympics debut in Paris, helping lead Team USA to a gold medal by averaging 11.2 points, 3.8 rebounds, 1.4 assists, and a block per game.
His 19 points and four boards against Serbia in the semifinals propelled the team’s memorable come-from-behind win.
Team USA went 6-0 in Paris and 5-0 during a USA Basketball international showcase; Embiid started 10 of the 11 matches. Embiid became a U.S. citizen in 2022, but could have played for France or Cameroon, as well.
“After discussions with my family, I knew my allegiance had to be with Team USA,” he said.
“I want to play with my brothers in the league and honor my son, who was born in the U.S. I want him to know I played my first Olympics for him.”
Honored in Cameroon
A few weeks later, Embiid returned to his native Cameroon to receive the country’s prestigious Order of Valor medal from President Paul Biya.
The accolade is a testament to Embiid’s dedication and contributions to his homeland.
Born in Yaoundé, Cameroon, Embiid moved to the United States at 16 and has consistently given back to the country through initiatives like the Arthur Embiid & Angels Foundation, which aims to uplift at-risk youth in Cameroon.
Embiid’s recognition was a heartfelt acknowledgment of his contributions to Cameroon, despite the choice to represent Team USA.
That said, Embiid left the door open for possibly representing Cameroon at the 2028 Olympics in Los Angeles, saying, “It might not be with Team USA, it might be with Cameroon.”
NBA Extension Secures His Future
In addition to his Olympic achievements, Embiid recently secured a three-year contract extension with the Philadelphia 76ers worth $192.9 million.
The extension brings his total guaranteed earnings to $299.55 million through the 2028-29 season, one of the richest deals in league history.
“We’re ecstatic that this extension keeps him and his family in Philadelphia for years to come,” team owner Josh Harris said.
“Joel is a great family man, leader, and person.”
With seven All-Star selections, two scoring titles, and a history of guiding the 76ers to postseason appearances, Embiid’s legacy continues to grow.
Pride of The Rock
In his senior season at The Rock, Embiid was a significant contributor to the team’s 33–4 record and the school’s first state championship.
He averaged 13.0 points, 9.7 rebounds, and 1.9 blocks per game, earning recognition as a five-star recruit.
“The Rock’s basketball program takes immense pride in having such a remarkable athlete and person represent our community on the global stage,” said The Rock’s Justin Harden, Embiid’s head coach during the 2013 championship season.
“Joel is not just a superstar on the court, he is a role model and an inspiration to many, embodying the spirit of hard work, dedication, and giving back.”
