Joel Embiid 'Going to Enjoy' Boos from French Fans in USA's Olympic Gold Medal Game

Joel Embiid was already the biggest villain to the Paris crowd in the Olympic basketball tournament, but he is prepared for the boos to rain down on him when Team USA plays France for the gold medal on Saturday.

Speaking to reporters after Friday's practice, Embiid said he's "going to enjoy" the fan reaction and won't be afraid to play into it.

"It's all about Team USA against France, but I know myself, I'm going to interact myself and I'm going to enjoy it," Embiid said. "They're going to boo me. I'm going to go back at them and tell 'em to suck it. And so it's going to be fun."

Embiid's decision to play for the United States in the Olympics has proven to be quite controversial in France. He was granted French citizenship in 2022, despite having never lived in the country. There was a strong feeling within France's national basketball team that he would play for the country at the Paris Games.

When Embiid, who became a U.S. citizen in September 2022, committed to play for Team USA last October, France did not respond well. French national basketball team president Jean-Pierre Siutat called it "an easy way for him to get an Olympic medal."

Crowds in Paris have consistently booed Embiid loudly whenever he is introduced before games or touches the ball.

Embiid's presence proved to be critical for the U.S. in a 95-91 semifinal win over Serbia. He scored seven straight points in the fourth as Team USA overcame a 13-point deficit it was facing at the start of the final frame.

France became the first host country to reach the gold-medal game in men's basketball since 1996, defeating Germany 73-69 in the semifinal.

The gold medal game will be played at Accor Arena on Saturday at 3:30 p.m. ET.