The 2024 Olympics showcased 16 days of riveting basketball games, culminating in one of the most exhilarating tournaments to date. Among the highlights was a surprising victory from France over Canada during the knockout rounds, which saw the French team rise against the odds.
France's Stellar Performance
Leading up to the finals, France had several standout performances, most notably from Victor Wembanyama who averaged impressive stats: 15.8 points, 9.8 rebounds, 3.3 assists, 2.0 steals, and 1.7 blocks per game. However, a finger injury hampered Rudy Gobert, limiting his playtime to just 21 minutes over the last three games.
Serbia's Renaissance
Nikola Jokic was pivotal in guiding Serbia to its first Olympic medal since 2016. His leadership and playmaking abilities steered the Serbian team through intense competition, reflecting his invaluable presence on the court.
USA's Golden Triumph
The finale was a high-octane clash where Team USA clinched their 17th gold medal with a 98-87 victory over France. The win was fueled by the exceptional performance of Stephen Curry, who made his Olympic debut in the 2024 tournament. Initially, Curry had a slow start, scoring just 12 points over the first four games. But in the semifinals against Serbia, he exploded with 36 points.
Curry's Impact
In the climactic final game, Curry's contribution was nothing short of spectacular; he notched 24 points and nailed four consecutive three-pointers in the crucial closing moments. His performance in the final minutes, scoring 12 straight points, underscored his clutch playmaking ability. His efforts were instrumental in propelling Team USA to victory.
Booker's Versatility
Devin Booker also played a significant role, averaging 11.7 points per game and boasting a remarkable 56.5% shooting from beyond the arc throughout the Olympics. Booker's adaptability was evident as he transitioned from his role with the Phoenix Suns to meet the specific needs of the Olympic team. Reflecting on his 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."
Supporting Stars and Future Outlook
In the medal rounds, Booker not only showcased his scoring ability but also demonstrated his all-around skills, much like during the previous NBA season where he recorded a career-high 6.3 assists per game. Now entering his 10th season with the Suns, Booker will be under the guidance of new head coach Mike Budenholzer, an exciting development for Phoenix fans.
Warriors' New Era
As the international competition winds down, the Golden State Warriors are poised to enter a new chapter without Klay Thompson, marking a significant shift for the franchise. The Warriors, emblematic of resilience and reinvention, will undoubtedly be watched closely as they adapt to this new phase.
The 2024 Olympics, with its blend of stunning upsets, breakthrough performances, and veteran excellence, has unquestionably etched itself into the annals of basketball history. Each game's intensity and the players' dedication provided a magnificent spectacle for fans worldwide, setting a high benchmark for future tournaments. While teams and players return to their respective leagues and countries, the impact of this tournament will resonate for seasons to come.