The United States has so far dominated the men’s basketball tournament in Paris 2024, but some key players in the Team USA jersey have faced difficulties.
Among the players with the most problems is Joel Embiid, who, according to former Dream Team member Charles Barkley, is having an embarrassing tournament.
Barkley didn’t stop there. He also had some criticism for the rest of the team. The Paris 2024 Olympic Games are being broadcast live on Eurosport, with 10 channels available to Sky subscribers.
Charles Barkley Criticizes Team USA’s Performance at Paris 2024
Charles Barkley is known for not holding back when expressing his opinions, especially controversial ones. The former NBA legend is never lacking in bluntness, proving his reputation as a top-tier polemicist during his guest appearance on the latest episode of Paul George’s podcast.
The discussion centered around the star of the team Barkley spent much of his career with, the Philadelphia 76ers, who is also George’s new teammate. “Embiid did not show up at these Olympics in adequate shape,” Barkley said about the disappointing performances of Team USA’s center. “I think this is one of the reasons why he is always injured. And the way he is playing is a bit embarrassing.”
Barkley’s Message to Team USA: Olympic Gold is a Must
An Olympic gold medalist with the legendary Dream Team in Barcelona in 1992 and again in Atlanta four years later, Barkley also had a message for the team currently competing in Paris.
“Have other teams improved? Absolutely, but they are still not better than the United States.” Barkley continued, “Take away Jokic, Giannis [Antetokounmpo], Luka [Doncic], and SGA, and we still have the 10 best players on the court in every game.”
The former Sixers and Rockets player added, “No other team can bring guys like Jayson Tatum and Kevin Durant off the bench.” Finally, Barkley ended his comments with his signature provocation: “If Team USA loses, we can’t let them back into the country.”
