“Surprised They Still Accept Him After He Betrayed Them”: Fans React as Joel Embiid Receives Order of Valor from Cameroon President

Philadelphia 76ers star Joel Embiid, originally from Cameroon, recently received the prestigious Medal of Commander of the Order of Valor from Cameroon’s President, Paul Biya, just days after winning Olympic gold with Team USA. The honor recognizes “exceptional contributions” in various fields, but not all fans were pleased.

Embiid’s decision to play for Team USA instead of Cameroon or France sparked mixed reactions, with some fans expressing their disappointment. One fan commented, “I’m so surprised that they still accept him after he betrayed them.”

I’m so surprised that they still accept him after he betrayed them

— BIGMEM12 (@BIGMEM12) August 14, 2024

Despite the backlash he faced during the Olympics, Embiid was warmly welcomed in his home country, where he accepted the award with pride.

The 30-year-old NBA star, who lived in Cameroon until age 16, faced criticism throughout the Olympics for his choice to represent the U.S., but he defended his decision, emphasizing his strong ties to both the U.S. and Cameroon.