In a riveting 16 days of competition, the 2024 Olympics brought forth unforgettable basketball moments, marked by extraordinary individual performances and groundbreaking achievements. The basketball tournament witnessed a blend of established superstars and rising talents delivering on the grandest stage.
France's Shock Victory
One of the tournament's most surprising outcomes was France's victory over Canada in the knockout rounds. The French team, showcasing a mix of seasoned veterans and promising young players, managed to outmaneuver their Canadian counterparts, advancing further into the competition.
Nikola Jokic Steers Serbia to Success
A standout performer, Nikola Jokic led Serbia to its first Olympic medal since 2016. Jokic's leadership and skill were instrumental in Serbia's campaign, culminating in a momentous achievement for the national team.
Team USA's Dominance
Continuing their dominance in Olympic basketball, Team USA secured their 17th gold medal with a 98-87 victory over France. The match was a showcase of American basketball prowess, with several players stepping up at crucial moments.
Stephen Curry's Olympic Debut
Among the highlights was Stephen Curry's first appearance in the Olympics. Despite a slow start, scoring only 12 points in the first four games, Curry found his rhythm when it mattered most. In the semifinals against Serbia, he delivered a remarkable 36-point performance, ensuring Team USA's place in the final.
Curry's impact was equally significant in the gold medal game against France, where he contributed 24 points and sank four consecutive three-pointers in the final moments. His consistent scoring streak of 12 straight points in the game underscored his invaluable presence on the court.
Devin Booker's Versatility
Devin Booker was another key figure for Team USA, averaging 11.7 points per game and shooting an impressive 56.5% from beyond the arc. Despite playing a relatively limited role during the medal rounds, with just 23 combined minutes, Booker's versatility and efficiency were evident throughout the tournament. Reflecting on Booker's performance, Coach Steve Kerr remarked, "Devin was incredible. He completely changed his role from the NBA to now. He was kind of our unsung MVP."
Challenges and Comebacks
The tournament was not without its challenges for some players. Anthony Edwards, expected to be a significant contributor, played just 23 minutes over the medal rounds. Meanwhile, French center Rudy Gobert was hampered by a finger injury, limiting him to 21 minutes over France's last three games.
Victor Wembanyama's Prominence
Victor Wembanyama emerged as a key player for France, showcasing 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. His performance solidified his reputation as one of the most promising young talents in international basketball.
Looking Ahead for Booker and Warriors
As the players return to their respective teams, Devin Booker is set to embark on his 10th season with the Phoenix Suns under new head coach Mike Budenholzer. Fresh off a season where he achieved a career-high 6.3 assists per game, the transition poses an exciting chapter in Booker's career.
On a different note, the Golden State Warriors are on the brink of a new era, preparing to begin a season without Klay Thompson. This shift marks a significant change for the team, which has relied heavily on the Splash Brothers duo for years.
The 2024 Olympics will be remembered not only for the dazzling plays and unexpected victories but also for the stories of perseverance and adaptation. As fans look back on these 16 days, the memories of spectacular performances and emerging talents will surely linger, leaving an indelible mark on the history of Olympic basketball.