In what will be remembered as a landmark event, the 2024 Olympics delivered 16 days of electric basketball action. Among the standout narratives was France's unexpected triumph over Canada in the knockout rounds, which set the stage for a series of memorable encounters.
Team USA's Historic Win
Team USA claimed their 17th gold medal in an intense final against France, securing a 98-87 victory. This win reinforced their dominance on the world stage and added another chapter to their storied Olympic legacy. The victory was highlighted by stellar performances, none more so than by NBA superstar Stephen Curry.
Stephen Curry's Olympic Journey
Making his Olympic debut, Curry's tournament started slow, with only 12 points scored across the first four games. However, his trajectory pivoted dramatically in the semifinals against Serbia, where he exploded for 36 points, guiding Team USA to the final.
In the gold medal match against France, Curry showcased his clutch genes by contributing 24 points, including a remarkable sequence of four consecutive three-pointers in the closing moments. His total of 12 straight points in the final stages was pivotal in securing the win. Reflecting on Curry's influence, Coach Steve Kerr remarked, "Devin was incredible. He completely changed his role from the NBA to now. He was kind of our unsung MVP."
Supporting Cast Shines
Devin Booker played a crucial role throughout the tournament, averaging 11.7 points per game and boasting an impressive 56.5% shooting from beyond the arc. He showcased his versatility and adaptability, vital traits that Coach Kerr widely praised. Despite Booker's individual accolades, Stephen Curry's leadership and scoring prowess were indispensable to Team USA's success.
Victor Wembanyama also turned heads with his performance, averaging 15.8 points, 9.8 rebounds, 3.3 assists, 2.0 steals, and 1.7 blocks per game. These numbers underscore his all-around impact and fortify his status as one of basketball's rising stars.
Challenges and Setbacks
While some stars shined, others faced difficulties. Anthony Edwards, for instance, saw limited action during the medal rounds, logging just 23 combined minutes. On the French side, Rudy Gobert had to contend with a finger injury that restricted him to only 21 minutes over France's last three games. These setbacks underscore the unpredictable and grueling nature of international competition.
Nikola Jokic's Brilliance
Another headline-stealing performance came from Serbia's Nikola Jokic, who led his team to its first medal since 2016. Jokic's leadership and exceptional play underscored his status as one of the game's premier talents.
Looking Ahead
As the basketball world shifts focus back to the NBA, many of these Olympic standouts will continue to influence their respective teams. Devin Booker, who is entering his 10th season with the Phoenix Suns, will do so under new head coach Mike Budenholzer. Booker is coming off a career-high of 6.3 assists per game last season, highlighting his evolution as a complete player.
Meanwhile, the Golden State Warriors are preparing for a new era as they move forward without Klay Thompson. This transition will undoubtedly shape the team’s strategy and dynamics moving forward.
The 2024 Olympics not only showcased elite basketball talent and unforgettable moments but also set the stage for future narratives in the sport. From Curry’s electrifying debut to Jokic’s redemption and Wembanyama’s emergence, the tournament was a seminal event teeming with stories that will resonate for years to come.