Team USA Wins Fifth Straight Men’s Basketball Gold Medal
Over the past three decades, the rest of the world has made significant strides in men’s basketball, with many teams developing brilliant talents and showing great promise. Yet, when Team USA sends its best, no other team has been able to dethrone the Americans. This was evident once again as Team USA captured its fifth consecutive Olympic gold medal with a hard-fought 98-87 victory over the host nation, France, on Saturday.
Stephen Curry’s Clutch Performance
The defining moment of the game came courtesy of Stephen Curry, who delivered four clutch three-pointers in a span of just over two minutes during the fourth quarter. This surge stifled a French comeback and secured Curry his first Olympic gold medal. His final three-pointer, a difficult fallaway shot, quieted the home crowd as he celebrated with his trademark “put them to sleep” gesture.
“At that point, your mind goes blank; you don’t think about the setting or the scenario—it’s just about the shot,” Curry said. “Thankfully, that one went in… it’s just rhythm, flow, and confidence.”
Curry, who had been sensational throughout the tournament, followed up his 36-point performance in the semifinals with 24 points in the final, including eight three-pointers on 12 attempts.
“I’ve seen Steph do that a few times, but it never gets old,” said Team USA coach Steve Kerr. “It’s a global game with a lot of great players, but we still feel we have the greatest players.”
LeBron James Adds Another MVP to His Collection
LeBron James, who first won a major MVP award at age 24, added another to his storied career 15 years later by being named the Olympic MVP. This honor, introduced at the Tokyo 2021 Olympics, joins his extensive collection of accolades, including four NBA MVPs, four Finals MVPs, three NBA All-Star Game MVPs, and the first-ever In-Season Tournament MVP.
Wearing golden shoes, James played a crucial role in the final, scoring 14 points, grabbing 6 rebounds, and dishing out 10 assists. He earned his third Olympic gold and fourth overall Olympic medal, joining Kevin Durant as the only American men to achieve this milestone. Durant, who had 15 points in the final, became the first American man to win four gold medals in basketball.
Other key contributions came from Devin Booker, who scored 15 points and secured his second gold medal, and Anthony Davis, who had 8 points, 10 rebounds, and 4 blocks, also earning his second gold medal.
Three-Point Shooting Proves Decisive
Team USA’s three-point shooting was the difference-maker in the game. The Americans hit 18 of 36 from beyond the arc, a feat that France couldn’t match. Despite their best efforts, the French made only 9 of 30 from three-point range.
“It wasn’t easy, but damn, I’m excited,” Curry said. “This is everything I wanted it to be and more.”
Victor Wembanyama’s Breakout Performance
For France, the young star Victor Wembanyama showed why he is considered one of the brightest hopes in international basketball. He had a stellar game, scoring 26 points and grabbing 7 rebounds. From the opening moments, when he drilled a long three-pointer, to his defensive presence throughout the game, Wembanyama left a significant mark on the contest.
As the Americans celebrated their victory, Wembanyama, who had given everything on the court, was seen wiping away tears. His performance, however, earned praise even from the opposing side.
“Wembanyama was amazing tonight,” Kerr said. “He’s soon going to become one of the best in the world.”
A Hard-Fought Game for France
The French team played with determination and pride, pressing the U.S. throughout a tense second half. Their aggressive defense forced 17 turnovers, keeping them within striking distance and putting pressure on the Americans. Guerschon Yabusele scored 20 points for France, who has now won silver in the past three Olympics.
“It’s a disappointment because we believed we could do it,” said France coach Vincent Collet. “But we have to recognize that in the end, they were better. They’re still the best.”
Team USA’s victory in Paris continues their incredible run of success on the Olympic stage, proving once again that when the best of America competes, they remain the team to beat.