Over the past three decades, the world has seen remarkable growth in basketball, with numerous talented players and emerging teams demonstrating significant potential. However, when Team USA brings its best, no one has yet managed to dethrone them. The USA secured its fifth consecutive Olympic gold medal after a hard-fought 98-87 victory over the determined host nation, France, on Saturday.
The game’s defining moment came from Stephen Curry, who delivered four clutch 3-pointers in a span of two minutes during the fourth quarter, staving off a French comeback. Curry sealed his first Olympic gold with an incredible fadeaway three-pointer over two defenders, punctuated by his signature “put them to sleep” gesture.
“I think that shot is going in before every one,” Curry said. As I was concentrating solely on the rim, I disregarded the defenders. That one even impressed me.”
Curry, who had already hit nine 3-pointers in the semifinals and scored 36 points, continued his hot streak by sinking 8-of-12 triples in the final, finishing with 24 points.
Team USA’s head coach, Steve Kerr, expressed admiration for Curry’s performance, stating, “I’ve seen Steph do this many times, but it never gets old. It’s a global game with many great players, but we believe we have the best.”
LeBron James, who was named Olympics MVP, contributed 14 points, six rebounds, and 10 assists, adding to his already impressive list of accolades. James, who averaged 14.2 points, 6.8 rebounds, and 8.5 assists on 66% shooting throughout the Olympics, earned his third career gold and fourth Olympic medal overall, joining Kevin Durant as the only American male athletes with four Olympic medals.
Durant added 15 points in the final, becoming the first American male to win four gold medals. Devin Booker, another standout, scored 15 points, securing his second gold medal. Kerr praised Booker, calling him the team’s “unsung MVP” for his adaptability and consistent play.
Anthony Davis also shined, contributing 8 points, 10 rebounds, and 4 blocks, and earning his second Olympic gold.
Team USA’s superior 3-point shooting made the difference, as they connected on 18-of-36 attempts, outpacing France, who made just 9-of-30.
Victor Wembanyama, seen as a future threat to Team USA’s dominance, delivered an impressive performance with 26 points and seven rebounds, showcasing his potential on the global stage. Despite the loss, Wembanyama vowed to use this experience as motivation for the future.
Guerschon Yabusele added 20 points for France, which has now secured silver in the last two Olympics. France’s coach, Vincent Collet, acknowledged the disappointment but conceded, “We have to recognize they were better. They’re still the best.”