The 2024 Olympics in Paris delivered some unforgettable basketball moments over its 16 days of competition. From surprising upsets to historic performances, the tournament provided a platform for both emerging stars and established legends to leave their mark.
Surprising Upsets and Historic Achievements
One of the biggest surprises came from France, who managed to pull off a stunning victory over Canada in the knockout rounds. This upset paved the way for their impressive run to the final, where they faced off against a powerhouse Team USA.
Nikola Jokic was instrumental in leading Serbia to its first Olympic medal since 2016. Jokic’s performance was a testament to his exceptional skills and leadership on the court, inspiring his team to greater heights.
Team USA’s Dominance
Team USA continued its dominance in Olympic basketball, securing their 17th gold medal with a hard-fought 98-87 victory over France in the final. The win was a collective effort, but one player in particular stood out.
Stephen Curry, making his Olympic debut in 2024, had a tournament to remember. Despite a slow start, scoring only 12 points through the first four games, Curry found his rhythm when it mattered most. In the semifinals against Serbia, he exploded for 36 points, showcasing his scoring prowess and sharpshooting ability.
Curry's Clutch Performance
In the final against France, Curry continued his stellar play, contributing 24 points and sinking four consecutive three-pointers in the final moments to seal the victory. His clutch performance was capped by scoring 12 straight points, solidifying his impact on the game. Coach Steve Kerr lauded Curry’s efforts, emphasizing how he transitioned his NBA role to fit perfectly within the Olympic team dynamic.
Outstanding Contributions and Injuries
Devin Booker also made significant contributions to Team USA’s success. Averaging 11.7 points per game and shooting an impressive 56.5% from beyond the arc, Booker proved to be a reliable scorer and a vital component of the team’s offensive strategy. Booker, who entered his 10th NBA season with the Phoenix Suns under the guidance of new head coach Mike Budenholzer, had recently achieved a career-high 6.3 assists per game in the previous NBA season. According to Coach Kerr, "Devin was incredible. He completely changed his role from the NBA to now. He was kind of our unsung MVP."
On the other hand, Anthony Edwards saw limited action, playing just 23 combined minutes during the medal rounds but still contributed to the overall team effort. Meanwhile, France’s Rudy Gobert struggled with a finger injury, which limited him to just 21 minutes over their last three games, significantly impacting his performance.
Emerging Stars and Future Prospects
Victor Wembanyama emerged as a new star for France, demonstrating his all-around abilities with averages of 15.8 points, 9.8 rebounds, 3.3 assists, 2.0 steals, and 1.7 blocks per game. His performance solidified his status as one of the brightest young talents in international basketball.
As the games concluded, the landscape of international basketball witnessed a blend of seasoned veterans achieving new milestones and young prodigies setting the stage for future glory. The Olympics have always been a crucial platform for showcasing basketball talent, and the 2024 tournament was no exception.
The Golden State Warriors are set to embark on a new era without Klay Thompson, signaling a significant shift for one of the NBA’s most successful franchises in recent years. The blend of Olympic experience and the changing dynamics in the NBA promises an exciting future for basketball fans worldwide.
The 2024 Olympics was a celebration of the sport, filled with moments that will be remembered and cherished for years to come. With the ever-evolving landscape of international basketball, the future looks bright for the next generation of athletes ready to take the stage.