The 2024 Olympics may have ended, but the reverberations of the electrifying basketball tournament are still being felt. Over 16 days of competition, fans witnessed some of the most exhilarating moments in Olympic basketball history, punctuated by stellar performances from both seasoned veterans and emerging stars.
A Tournament of Surprises and Triumphs
In an unexpected turn of events, France managed to pull off a stunning victory over Canada in the knockout rounds, setting the stage for their journey to the final. This upset was just the beginning of a series of remarkable performances that would define the tournament.
Serbia, led by the formidable Nikola Jokic, clinched its first Olympic medal since 2016. Jokic's leadership and on-court prowess were instrumental in steering Serbia through a challenging bracket to secure a place on the podium.
Team USA, however, reasserted its dominance in Olympic basketball by securing their 17th gold medal with a 98-87 victory over France in the final. This triumph was a testament to the team's resilience and strategic gameplay throughout the tournament.
Stephen Curry's Olympic Debut
The 2024 tournament marked Stephen Curry’s first appearance on the Olympic stage. Despite a slow start, where he scored only 12 points through the first four games, Curry found his rhythm when it mattered most. In the semifinals against Serbia, Curry exploded for 36 points, showcasing the kind of scoring ability that has made him a household name in the NBA.
Against France in the final, Curry continued his impressive form by contributing 24 points and sinking four consecutive three-pointers in the game’s closing moments. This pivotal performance not only secured the gold for Team USA but also cemented Curry's place in the annals of Olympic basketball history.
Curry's heroics were encapsulated in one stretch of the final game where he scored 12 straight points, demonstrating his flair for the dramatic and his ability to deliver under pressure.
Noteworthy Contributions and Challenges
Yet, it wasn’t just Curry who shined brightly. Devin Booker emerged as a crucial player for Team USA, averaging 11.7 points per game and shooting an impressive 56.5% from beyond the arc. Booker’s adaptability and consistent performances earned high praise from Coach Steve Kerr, who remarked, “Devin was incredible. He completely changed his role from the NBA to now. He was kind of our unsung MVP.”
Meanwhile, Anthony Edwards's playing time was surprisingly limited, as he saw just 23 combined minutes during the medal rounds. Despite his reduced role, Edwards’s presence was felt by his teammates and coaches alike.
International Standouts
On the international front, Victor Wembanyama of France showcased his immense potential, averaging 15.8 points, 9.8 rebounds, 3.3 assists, 2.0 steals, and 1.7 blocks per game. His all-around performance was a beacon of hope for French basketball, especially as they battled through injuries and setbacks.
France’s Rudy Gobert faced his own challenges with a finger injury that curtailed his playing time to just 21 minutes over the team’s last three games. Despite this, Gobert's defensive presence was a key factor in France's journey to the final.
Looking Ahead
As players return to their professional careers, the impact of the Olympics continues to resonate. Devin Booker, fresh off his impressive Olympic run, is set to enter his 10th season with the Phoenix Suns under new head coach Mike Budenholzer. Booker is coming off a career-high season where he averaged 6.3 assists per game, and his Olympic performance only augurs well for his upcoming NBA season.
The NBA landscape is also shifting, with the Golden State Warriors gearing up for a new era without Klay Thompson. Stephen Curry’s Olympic experience could very well play a pivotal role as he leads the Warriors into this new chapter.
The 2024 Olympics may be over, but its memories will linger, inspiring a new generation of basketball fans and players. Each game's culmination of skill, grit, and determination serves as a powerful reminder of the sport's global appeal and the enduring spirit of competition.