Steve Kerr Holds On to His Decision to Play Joel Embiid in the Big 3 Mix with LeBron James and Stephen Curry in Team USA’s Starting LineupSteve Kerr, Joel Embiid, LeBron James and Stephen Curry (Image Source: Getty Images)

Fans have urged Team USA coach Steve Kerr to switch up the starting lineup, but Kerr is sticking with Joel Embiid in the starting lineup. Embiid was awarded US citizenship in September 2022, and this is his first game with the national team. With the national squad, the American-Cameroonian big man is progressively accelerating.

When playing against Canada in his first exhibition match, Embiid struggled with the roughness permitted under FIBA regulations. As a result, he picked up five fouls in the third quarter and was eventually dismissed from the game. But the center for the Philadelphia 76ers has gradually picked it up in the subsequent games.

Kerr said, “I like those three guys in our starting lineup. We’ve been looking at other guys around them and we obviously do have great options, but I like those three guys together.”

Despite this, many still want Kerr to start Anthony Davis or Bam Adebayo since they are more accustomed to playing on the national team. The coach said he would still rather see Embiid play next to LeBron James and Stephen Curry. He claims the three players are a Big 3 for Team USA since they are often the center of attention for the attack.

Kevin Durant’s ability to suit up when necessary will be expected by the coaching staff, which may cause the team’s rotation to alter.

Joel Embiid Faced Criticism Over Fitness from NBA Legend Kendrick Perkins

Because it has some of the top NBA players on its roster, Team USA has an abundance of offensive alternatives. One guy who has what it takes to lead the squad in scoring is Joel Embiid. Not everyone is happy that he is a starter for the national team.

A former NBA center, Kendrick Perkins, prefers Anthony Davis to Embiid in the starting lineup. Perkins stated his opinion on the Sixers star’s lack of fitness and unreliability as a member of Team USA:

“I’m wondering when is he gonna put Anthony Davis is the starting lineup and take out Joel Embiid,” Perkins said. “When I look at Joel Embiid right now, a question comes to mind and it’s a concern, he looks out of shape… He don’t look good right now getting up and down the floor.”

It may take some time for Kerr to decide and alter the rotation. However, he appears pleased with what he has seen from Embiid thus far.