Joel Embiid unlikely to play for France in FIBA World Cup / News - Basketnews.com

France national team head coach Vincent Collet says it's unlikely to see Joel Embiid playing for France in the upcoming FIBA World Cup.

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Philadelphia 76ers star Joel Embiid is unlikely to play for France in the upcoming FIBA World Cup 2023, according to the French national team head coach Vincent Collet.

Joel Embiid

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Collet took part in the press conference following the FIBA World Cup Draw, where he was asked about Embiid's availability.

"Joel hasn't made a decision, but it seems difficult to see him playing this summer," L'Equipe quotes Collet. "That does not mean he won't play with us next year. He is getting married this summer, and it really falls into the wrong period, during the preparation of all the teams."

However, Collet doesn't rule out the possibility of Embiid playing in the 2024 Paris Olympics.

"From the moment he does not play this summer, there is more time for him to decide. Being able to take the steps with FIBA also takes time," added Collet.

Cameroon-born Embiid obtained French citizenship last July, and a couple of months later, he also officially became a United States citizen.

Collet is expected to announce a preliminary roster for FIBA World Cup on June 28.

France will compete in Group H in the FIBA World Cup and face Canada, Latvia, and Lebanon.

FIBA World Cup will take place in the Philippines, Japan, and Indonesia from August 25th to September 10th.

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