In an eventful 16 days of basketball at the 2024 Olympics, numerous memorable moments unfolded on the court. One of the standout narratives was France's unexpected triumph over Canada in the knockout rounds, signaling their determination and capacity to challenge the basketball elite.
A Golden Achievement for Team USA
Team USA's journey culminated in their 17th gold medal, secured with a hard-fought 98-87 victory against France in the final. The performance was underscored by the contributions of Stephen Curry and Devin Booker, each bringing unique elements to the team's success. Making his Olympic debut, Curry initially struggled, scoring a mere 12 points over the first four games. However, he found his rhythm when it mattered most, particularly in the semifinal against Serbia, where he delivered a standout performance with 36 points.
Curry's impact continued in the final against France, where he scored 24 points, including a remarkable stretch where he sank four consecutive three-pointers. His scoring prowess shone through in critical moments, highlighting his legendary status. In the grand finale, Curry scored an impressive 12 straight points, sealing the victory and solidifying his contribution to Team USA's triumph.
Booker's Stellar Play
Devin Booker's performance was a revelation throughout the tournament. Averaging 11.7 points per game and shooting an astonishing 56.5% from beyond the arc, Booker played a pivotal role in Team USA's offensive strategies. Despite playing fewer minutes during the medal rounds, Anthony Edwards demonstrated his potential, but it was Booker's consistency and adaptability that stood out. According to Coach Steve Kerr, "Devin was incredible. He completely changed his role from the NBA to now. He was kind of our unsung MVP."
Serbia's Return to Glory
On the international stage, Nikola Jokic was instrumental in leading Serbia to its first Olympic medal since 2016. Jokic's leadership and excellence were pivotal in guiding his team through the highly competitive tournament, underscoring his significance in international basketball.
France's Resilience
France's performance was marked not only by their victory over Canada but also by the emergence of Victor Wembanyama, who showcased his all-around skills. With averages of 15.8 points, 9.8 rebounds, 3.3 assists, 2.0 steals, and 1.7 blocks per game, Wembanyama demonstrated why he is considered one of the brightest young talents in the sport. However, the team's path was not without setbacks. Rudy Gobert's finger injury limited him to just 21 minutes over France's last three games, affecting their defensive strength and overall performance.
A New Chapter for the Warriors
As the dust settles on the Olympics, attention shifts to the NBA, where significant transitions are in motion. Devin Booker is set to start his 10th season with the Phoenix Suns, now under the guidance of new head coach Mike Budenholzer. Booker's last season was marked by his career-high average of 6.3 assists per game, highlighting his evolution as a playmaker.
Meanwhile, the Golden State Warriors are on the brink of a new era without Klay Thompson. The Warriors' future dynamics will be a topic of immense interest as they navigate this transition, seeking to maintain their competitive edge in a challenging league.
The 2024 Olympics not only provided thrilling basketball action but also set the stage for significant developments in the international and NBA landscapes. As players return to their professional commitments, the ripple effects of the Olympic performances will undoubtedly be felt across the basketball world.