Over 16 days of electrifying competition, the 2024 Olympics basketball event provided a captivating narrative filled with surprises, stellar performances, and historic achievements. The basketball world was left buzzing, not least because of France's unexpected triumph over Canada in the knockout rounds, and Team USA's continued dominance.
Team USA Secures 17th Gold Medal
Team USA sealed their 17th gold medal with a thrilling 98-87 victory over France. The final was marked by remarkable performances, particularly that of Stephen Curry, who made his Olympic debut in 2024. After a slow start, scoring only 12 points in the first four games, Curry showcased his legendary prowess in the semifinal against Serbia with a staggering 36-point haul.
In the gold medal match, Curry was pivotal. He registered 24 points and notably sank four consecutive three-pointers in the game's closing moments. His brilliance was underscored by a stretch where he scored 12 straight points, putting the outcome beyond doubt and securing the gold for the Americans.
Stephen Curry's Olympic Impact
Stephen Curry's journey through the Olympics was a study in perseverance and skill. Initially struggling to find his rhythm, he rose to the occasion when it mattered most. The semifinal triumph over Serbia, underpinned by Curry's outstanding performance, was a testament to his enduring talent and competitive spirit.
Coach Steve Kerr lauded another Team USA star, Devin Booker, saying, "Devin was incredible. He completely changed his role from the NBA to now. He was kind of our unsung MVP." Booker, who averaged 11.7 points per game while shooting a remarkable 56.5% from beyond the arc, proved to be a critical asset for the team.
Booker's Versatility Shines
Devin Booker demonstrated his versatility and ability to adapt to different roles. Entering his 10th season with the Phoenix Suns under new head coach Mike Budenholzer, Booker has built a reputation as a dynamic and reliable player. His Olympic performance, replete with a career-high 6.3 assists per game last season, further solidified his standing.
International Stars Make Their Mark
Beyond Team USA's achievements, the tournament featured notable performances from international stars. Nikola Jokic led Serbia to their first medal since 2016, confirming his status as one of the premier players in the world. Meanwhile, France's Victor Wembanyama showcased his considerable talents, averaging 15.8 points, 9.8 rebounds, 3.3 assists, 2.0 steals, and 1.7 blocks per game. His remarkable all-round performance cemented his place as a rising star in global basketball.
Challenges for Key Players
Rudy Gobert of France faced adversity, as a finger injury limited him to just 21 minutes over France's last three games. Despite the setback, Gobert's presence was still felt on the court, although not to his usual dominant level.
Anthony Edwards, another standout for Team USA during the preliminary rounds, saw his playing time reduced to just 23 minutes across the medal rounds. The strategic decisions highlighted the depth and versatility of Team USA's roster.
Changing Landscapes in the NBA
As the Olympic festivities concluded, attention turned once again to the NBA. The Golden State Warriors are preparing for a new era without Klay Thompson, signaling potential shifts in the league's power dynamics.
The 2024 Olympics not only celebrated basketball excellence but also offered a glimpse into the future of the sport. From the emergence of new talent to the steadfast brilliance of seasoned veterans, the tournament epitomized the global passion for basketball and set the stage for future thrilling encounters on the world stage.