Before the 2024 Olympics, Team USA entered the tournament with immense anticipation, featuring stars such as Stephen Curry, LeBron James, Kevin Durant, Anthony Edwards, and Joel Embiid. The roster, packed with experienced <a href="https://www.buzzineintl.com/category/basketball/nba/”>NBA talent, was expected to dominate despite the challenges posed by strong international competition.
Yet, having the best individual players did not guarantee victory, as many other countries have advanced significantly in international basketball. Top NBA players like Giannis Antetokounmpo, Luka Doncic, and Nikola Jokic headline various European teams that have developed strong chemistry through years of playing together, contrasting with the Americans’ limited preparation time.
France Emerges as a Formidable Opponent in the Olympic Final
The gold medal game on August 10, 2024, showcased one of the most intense contests in Olympic basketball history. France, the host nation, was anchored by rising star Victor Wembanyama and supported by veterans such as Nicolas Batum, Guerschon Yabusele, Evan Fournier, and Rudy Gobert. Their imposing frontcourt presence made the matchup particularly challenging for Team USA.
Despite the home crowd advantage and France’s strong performance, the United States led by eight points at halftime. However, Wembanyama’s ability to score both inside the paint and from beyond the arc kept the French team within striking distance. Heading into the final quarter, the score was 72-66 in favor of the U.S., setting the stage for a dramatic finish.
Stephen Curry’s Late-Game Brilliance Secures Victory
In the decisive fourth quarter, Stephen Curry’s shooting became the defining factor. He drained eight three-pointers in total, including four critical shots during clutch moments. The highlight came with 34 seconds remaining, when Curry nailed an extraordinary long-range shot despite being double-teamed by Fournier and Batum, delivering the dagger that put the game out of reach.
LeBron James, Kevin Durant, and Devin Booker played essential roles in creating these opportunities by penetrating the defense and drawing attention away from Curry. Even with multiple defenders on him, Curry’s shooting proved unstoppable. His performance helped the U.S. convert 18 of 36 three-point attempts in the game.
Four of the five American starters reached double-digit points, while France only had two players scoring above 10. Curry finished with 24 points, Durant and Booker added 15 points each, and James contributed 14 points. On the French side, Wembanyama led with 26 points and seven rebounds, and Yabusele chipped in 20 points.
Veteran Leadership and Team USA’s Undefeated Run Highlight the Olympics
This tournament likely marked the final Olympic appearance for aging stars like James, Curry, and Durant, all of whom played pivotal roles in securing gold for the United States. Their leadership and experience were crucial to the team’s flawless 6-0 record throughout the competition. LeBron James was named the tournament MVP, recognized for his outstanding efforts just before his 40th birthday.
LeBron James Sparks Dramatic Comeback Against Serbia in Semifinals
Before reaching the final, Team USA faced a significant test in the semifinals against Serbia, led by Nikola Jokic. Down by 17 points in the second half and trailing by 13 entering the fourth quarter, the Americans appeared on the brink of elimination. However, a determined performance by LeBron James and Stephen Curry fueled a comeback that secured the team’s place in the gold medal game.