As the curtain fell on the 2024 Olympics basketball tournament, fans were left with unforgettable memories and extraordinary performances, solidifying the event as one of the most thrilling in recent history.
France's Stunning Upset
One of the most surprising moments was France's unexpected triumph over Canada in the knockout rounds. This victory set the stage for a series of captivating games filled with high stakes and dramatic outcomes.
Jokic Leads Serbia to Glory
Nikola Jokic, the towering figure of Serbian basketball, guided his nation to a commendable medal finish, marking Serbia’s first podium appearance since 2016. His leadership and ability to dominate the game played a crucial role in Serbia's journey through the tournament.
Team USA Secures 17th Gold
Team USA continued its legacy of basketball dominance, clinching their 17th gold medal with a hard-fought 98-87 victory over France in the final. The win not only underlined their supremacy but also brought to light the stellar performances of their key players.
Curry's Olympic Debut
The 2024 tournament saw Stephen Curry make his much-anticipated Olympic debut. Curry’s initial performance was modest, scoring just 12 points over the first four games. However, he soon found his stride, delivering a spectacular 36-point game against Serbia in the semifinals.
Clutch Moments in the Final
In the gold medal match against France, Curry continued his scintillating form by contributing 24 points, including four consecutive three-pointers in the crucial final moments. His ability to take control under pressure culminated in scoring 12 consecutive points, leaving an indelible mark on the game.
Booker’s Versatility
Devin Booker’s performance throughout the tournament was notable for its consistency and efficiency. Averaging 11.7 points per game and shooting an impressive 56.5% from beyond the arc, Booker adapted seamlessly to his role. His contributions did not go unnoticed.
"Devin was incredible. He completely changed his role from the NBA to now. He was kind of our unsung MVP," remarked Coach Steve Kerr, emphasizing Booker's pivotal role in Team USA's success.
Edwards and Wembanyama
Anthony Edwards had a quieter tournament, playing just 23 minutes combined during the medal rounds. On the other hand, Victor Wembanyama showcased his all-around skills for France, averaging 15.8 points, 9.8 rebounds, 3.3 assists, 2.0 steals, and 1.7 blocks per game, underscoring his potential as a future star.
Gobert’s Injury Struggles
France’s campaign hit a snag as Rudy Gobert dealt with a finger injury, limiting him to only 21 minutes over their last three games. Gobert’s absence was a significant blow to the French defense, impacting their overall performance in the latter stages of the tournament.
Post-Olympics NBA Implications
Looking ahead to the NBA season, Devin Booker is poised to enter his 10th season with the Phoenix Suns under the leadership of new head coach Mike Budenholzer. Booker’s evolving game was evident last season, where he recorded a career-high 6.3 assists per game, demonstrating his growing versatility and playmaking skills.
Meanwhile, the Golden State Warriors are on the cusp of a new era as they prepare to start the season without Klay Thompson. His absence will surely be felt, and it will be interesting to see how the team adapts and evolves in his absence.
The 2024 Olympics basketball tournament not only provided high-octane entertainment but also set the stage for new narratives and developments as players transition back to their professional careers. It was a celebration of skill, resilience, and the unrelenting spirit of competition.