Joel Embiid joined CNN to talk Cameroon soccer, 76ers season
Basketball Jesus/MVP frontrunner Joel Embiid has been a popular man as of late. His play on the court has brought him even more attention than usual. However, his home country of Cameroon has also been making headlines, hosting and excelling in the African Cup of Nations, the continent’s premier international soccer tournament.
This confluence of Cameroonian sporting excellence led to CNN sports anchor Amanda Davies inviting him on her show to get his thoughts on his play and the impressive run of his fellow compatriots. At one point, Davies asks him, “what would mean more, winning NBA MVP or Cameroon winning the AFCON?”
Embiid rightfully had difficulty answering the question, but he was as humble as ever in his response. The interview included his words of encouragement to the Cameroon national team, his soccer history, his feelings about this Sixers season, and much more.
Here’s Embiid’s entire conversation with Davies:
Embiid had one of the coolest paths to the NBA, so any time we get to hear about it is always a treat.
My favorite part of the interview, though, was when he said he’s “playing more freely.” Not only am I happy to see he’s dominating, but he’s doing it his way.
Embiid had to mold his game to fit Ben Simmons’ limitations. Now, with Simmons out to lunch, he can play with far more freedom on offense.
He’s essentially assumed Simmons’ role in the offense, pushing the ball up the floor in transition and making the first pass. Embiid straight-up plays like a guard these days. Hell, he dribbles into a pull-up jumper as smooth as Kevin Durant, one of the best scorers of the basketball the game has ever seen.
He has indeed been a man possessed this season, and it’s been a pleasure to watch. Cameroon’s national team has been an incredible watch as well, advancing to the semi-final.
When Embiid said the AFCON deserves more respect as an international tournament, he’s absolutely right. African soccer is incredibly slept on despite producing generational talents at virtually every position.
Be sure to catch Cameroon in the AFCON Semi-final on Thursday, Feb. 3, at 2:00 pm. I know I will, and Embiid will definitely be tuning in.
Let’s hope Cameroon lifts the trophy and Embiid wins MVP. Now THAT would be a perfect world.
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Mandatory Credit: CNN
