The 2024 Olympic Games have concluded in Paris, and the basketball competition provided some of the most exhilarating moments of the multi-sport event. Over a span of 16 days, basketball aficionados witnessed remarkable performances, unexpected upsets, and unforgettable displays of talent.
France Surprises in Knockouts
The tournament began with high anticipation as seasoned teams and fresh talents took to the court. One of the early surprises came when France managed to secure an unexpected victory over Canada in the knockout rounds. This momentum carried them all the way to the finals, where they faced a formidable Team USA.
Team USA's Road to Gold
Continuing their legacy, Team USA claimed their 17th gold medal in Olympic basketball with a decisive 98-87 win over France in the final. All eyes were on Stephen Curry, who made his debut in Olympic basketball in 2024. Despite a quiet start, scoring only 12 points across the first four games, Curry dramatically turned up the heat in the semifinal against Serbia, where he scored a staggering 36 points.
In the finals, Curry continued to dazzle, contributing 24 points and making four consecutive three-pointers in crucial moments. Notably, he scored 12 straight points that sealed the game, showcasing his impeccable timing and leadership on the court.
Serbian Brilliance and Jokic's Masterclass
Another highlight of the tournament was Serbia's impressive performance, steered by Nikola Jokic. With his leadership, Serbia secured their first medal since 2016, reaffirming Jokic's status as one of the premier players in international basketball.
Booker's Impactful Run
Devin Booker, on the other hand, was another standout player for Team USA. Averaging 11.7 points per game and shooting an impressive 56.5% from beyond the arc, Booker adapted exceptionally well to his role. His performance did not go unnoticed by Coach Steve Kerr, who praised him by stating, "Devin was incredible. He completely changed his role from the NBA to now. He was kind of our unsung MVP."
Booker’s contributions were crucial, especially considering he is entering his 10th season with the Phoenix Suns, now under the guidance of new head coach Mike Budenholzer. His versatility and career-high 6.3 assists per game last season indicate a bright future ahead.
Challenges and Comebacks
Despite a valiant effort, some players faced tough challenges. Anthony Edwards saw limited action, clocking just 23 combined minutes during the medal rounds. Meanwhile, France's defensive stalwart Rudy Gobert struggled with a finger injury that restricted him to 21 minutes in France's last three games.
However, French sensation Victor Wembanyama showcased his all-around capabilities, averaging 15.8 points, 9.8 rebounds, 3.3 assists, 2.0 steals, and 1.7 blocks per game. This stellar performance cemented his status as a rising star in international basketball.
Golden State Warriors' Transition
Off the court, the NBA landscape is shifting. The Golden State Warriors are embarking on a new era without Klay Thompson. The changes taking place in the roster and the adaptation of players like Stephen Curry, who made his mark in the Olympics, will be keenly watched by basketball enthusiasts.
The 2024 Olympics not only showcased incredible basketball talent but also set the stage for fascinating storylines heading into future seasons. As fans look back on these moments, they'll remember the mix of surprising victories, stellar individual performances, and the thrill of competition that made the tournament unforgettable.