The United States men’s basketball team continued its dominance in international basketball, clinching their fifth straight Olympic gold medal with a 98-87 victory over France in the final of the Paris 2024 Games on August 10. The win further solidifies Team USA’s legacy as a powerhouse in Olympic basketball, a tradition that now extends over two decades.
The final at the Bercy Arena was marked by a dramatic display of skill and resilience from both teams. Steph Curry, in his Olympic debut, played a pivotal role in securing the gold. With his team facing a fierce challenge from the host nation, Curry stepped up in the final minutes, sinking four of his eight three-pointers and effectively sealing the victory. He finished the game with 24 points, leading the charge and delivering the decisive blows that staved off any hopes of a French comeback.
Curry’s performance was complemented by strong showings from his teammates. Kevin Durant and Devin Booker each contributed 15 points, while LeBron James added 14 points. Durant’s contribution was particularly noteworthy as he became the first men’s basketball player to win four Olympic gold medals, a testament to his enduring excellence and leadership on the court. Durant’s stats for the game included 15 points, four assists, four rebounds, and two steals, showcasing his all-around impact.
France, led by the impressive Victor Wembanyama and Guerschon Yabusele, put up a valiant fight. Wembanyama, who has been a rising star in global basketball, led all scorers with 26 points and added seven rebounds. Yabusele also played a crucial role, scoring 20 points. Despite their efforts and a spirited rally that saw the French team cut a double-digit deficit to just three points with 2:58 remaining, they could not overcome the relentless pressure from the American squad.
The French crowd’s hopes for a historic gold were dashed as Curry’s late-game heroics extinguished any prospects of a French resurgence. The victory handed France their third silver medal in Olympic basketball history and denied them their first gold.
Earlier in the day, Serbia triumphed over world champions Germany to secure the bronze medal with a 93-83 win. Serbian star Nikola Jokic delivered an outstanding performance, finishing with 19 points, 12 rebounds, and 11 assists. His triple-double was the fifth in Olympic history and underscored his exceptional all-around game.
For Team USA, the win at the Paris Olympics continues a remarkable streak of dominance that began with their gold medal win in Sydney 2000. The team’s consistent success over the years is a testament to their superior talent, preparation, and competitive spirit. As they celebrated their latest triumph, the American squad reaffirmed their status as the preeminent force in international basketball.
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