Over the course of 16 electrifying days, the 2024 Olympics showcased some of the most unforgettable basketball moments in recent memory. The global stage saw old powers reaffirm their dominance, emerging talents make their mark, and unexpected developments unfold, culminating in a grand finale that was nothing short of spectacular.
France's Surprising Upset
One of the first notable moments of the tournament was France's unexpected victory over Canada in the knockout rounds. The French team, led by rising star Victor Wembanyama, showed remarkable resolve. Wembanyama averaged an impressive 15.8 points, 9.8 rebounds, 3.3 assists, 2.0 steals, and 1.7 blocks per game, cementing his status as a future cornerstone of international basketball.
However, adversity struck as Rudy Gobert suffered a finger injury that drastically limited his playing time to just 21 minutes over France's last three games. Despite this setback, France's efforts propelled them into the finals, where they faced off against a dominant Team USA.
Team USA's Triumph
Team USA continued its reign over Olympic basketball, clinching their 17th gold medal with a 98-87 victory over France. This triumph was not only a team effort but also a showcase of individual brilliance, particularly from NBA superstar Stephen Curry, who made his Olympic debut in 2024.
Curry's performance was a tale of perseverance and clutch moments. Initially scoring only 12 points across the first four games, Curry exploded in the semifinals, putting up 36 points against Serbia. In the final against France, Curry's 24 points were pivotal, especially with his four consecutive three-pointers in the closing moments. In addition, he delivered 12 straight points, showcasing his resilience and ability to perform under pressure.
Devin Booker was another standout for Team USA, averaging 11.7 points per game and boasting a remarkable 56.5% shooting from beyond the arc. Coach Steve Kerr had high praise for Booker, stating, "Devin was incredible. He completely changed his role from the NBA to now. He was kind of our unsung MVP."
Serbia's Return to Glory
Nikola Jokic was instrumental in guiding Serbia to their first Olympic medal since 2016. His leadership and skill on the court were pivotal in Serbia's resurgence on the international stage. With Jokic at the helm, Serbia's silver medal was a testament to their hard work and determination.
Challenges and Transitions
While the Olympics showcased the apex of basketball performance, they also highlighted the challenges and transitions facing some of its stars. Anthony Edwards, despite being a prolific scorer, played just 23 combined minutes during the medal rounds, reflecting the deep bench and strategic rotations employed by Team USA.
On a different note, the domestic careers of these athletes are poised for significant changes. Devin Booker is set to embark on his 10th season with the Phoenix Suns, now under the guidance of new head coach Mike Budenholzer. Booker's last NBA season was his best in terms of playmaking, as he recorded a career-high 6.3 assists per game.
The Golden State Warriors are also on the verge of a new era, preparing to move forward without Klay Thompson, indicating a period of adjustment for the team.
The 2024 Olympics were a spectacle of skill, strategy, and spirit, leaving fans and players alike with memories that will last a lifetime. The performances on the court were a tribute to the hard work and dedication of the athletes, and each game added a new chapter to the rich history of Olympic basketball. As the dust settles, the ripple effects of these games will be felt both in international competitions and the upcoming NBA season, promising an exciting future for basketball enthusiasts around the world.