France wasn’t happy when Joel Embiid chose to play for Team USA. After hearing boos all tournament, Embiid took out some frustration on a different center with a French passport.
After some physical play under the basket, a staredown between Embiid and Gobert led to Gobert grabbing Embiid’s oft-injured knees and Embiid standing with Gobert’s head between his legs, possibly resting a sensitive part of his body there.
Perhaps European customs are different! Embiid got a steal, both players were charged with fouls and Embiid received a technical foul, leading to a Nando De Colo free throw.
Through three quarters, neither player was having much of a game. Embiid had four points, all on free throws, while Gobert had two points. Team USA has gotten more from backup center Anthony Davis, while Victor Wembanyama had 20 points through three quarters.
There’s clearly no love lost between Embiid and the entire French team. Circle your calendar for the first time Embiid’s Philadelphia 76ers play Gobert’s Minnesota Timberwolves next season.
