USA Wins Fifth Consecutive Men’s Basketball Gold with Rout of France at Paris 2024

The United States secured their fifth consecutive Olympic men’s basketball gold on Saturday, defeating France 98-87 and increasing their total Olympic gold count to 17.

In this rematch of the final from the Tokyo Olympics three years prior, the US team, featuring stars like LeBron James and an ensemble of NBA talent, once again overcame France. Despite a stellar performance from NBA Rookie of the Year Victor Wembanyama, France managed to cut a 14-point deficit down to three with just over three minutes left on the clock, thanks to Wembanyama’s put-back dunk. However, Stephen Curry of the Golden State Warriors quickly responded with a three-pointer—one of his four in the closing minutes—to secure the win for the United States.

Curry was exceptional, sinking eight three-pointers and topping the US scoring chart with 24 points. LeBron James praised Curry’s performance, emphasizing the strategic importance of continuing to feed him the ball. Curry himself remarked on his focus during the game’s critical moments, aiming to calm the play and secure good shots.

Contributing to the victory, Kevin Durant and Devin Booker each scored 15 points, while James added 14 points along with six rebounds and 10 assists. Durant set a record with his fourth Olympic gold, James won his third, and Curry earned his first Olympic gold in his debut at the games.

France’s Wembanyama had his best offensive performance of the Olympics, scoring 26 points, with Guerschon Yabusele adding 20. Despite these efforts, France struggled from beyond the arc, making only nine of 30 attempts. The US excelled in fast-break points, leading 31-9.

The game began with intense defense and numerous lead changes. Highlights included a dunk from Wembanyama that energized the local crowd and key plays from the US to regain and extend their lead.

The finals attracted notable spectators including French President Emmanuel Macron and sprint star Sha’Carri Richardson. Curry, following a standout semifinal performance, helped solidify the US lead with crucial second-half points.

Despite a determined effort from France, which brought them within six points entering the final quarter, the US ultimately celebrated their victory, draped in flags. A reflective Wembanyama, adorned with a silver medal, described the experience as incredible and vowed to aim for gold in the next Olympics in Los Angeles.

Earlier that day, Serbia claimed the bronze medal with a 93-83 win over World Cup champions Germany, led by Nikola Jokic’s triple-double performance.