The 2024 Olympics delivered 16 days of unforgettable basketball action, culminating in some of the most dramatic moments in the sport's recent history.
One of the standout events was Team France's unexpected triumph over Canada in the knockout rounds, a victory that set the stage for a thrilling tournament. However, it was Team USA that ultimately stole the show, capturing their 17th gold medal with a hard-fought 98-87 victory over France in the final.
Stephen Curry's Olympic Debut
Stephen Curry's first appearance on the Olympic stage was a highly anticipated event. Initially, Curry found himself struggling, scoring just 12 points across the first four games. Yet, as the stakes rose, so did Curry's performance. In the semifinals against Serbia, he exploded for 36 points, a critical surge that propelled Team USA into the final.
Facing France in the gold medal game, Curry continued to deliver under pressure. He scored 24 points, including four consecutive three-pointers in the closing moments, showcasing his signature clutch performance. Curry's relentless scoring streak, including 12 straight points, cemented his role as a pivotal force for Team USA.
Supporting Cast Shines
While Curry's heroics captured much of the spotlight, Devin Booker quietly put together an impressive tournament. Averaging 11.7 points per game and shooting 56.5% from beyond the arc, Booker's contribution was vital. His transformation from his role in the NBA to an Olympic context 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. Entering his 10th season with the Phoenix Suns, Booker will look to carry this momentum under the guidance of new head coach Mike Budenholzer.
Another significant performer, Anthony Edwards, had a limited but impactful presence, playing just 23 combined minutes during the medal rounds. On the international front, Serbia found a hero in Nikola Jokic, who led his country to its first basketball medal since 2016.
France's Resilience
Despite their final loss, France had a tournament to remember. Rookie sensation Victor Wembanyama was simply phenomenal, averaging 15.8 points, 9.8 rebounds, 3.3 assists, 2.0 steals, and 1.7 blocks per game. His contribution was instrumental in France's deep run in the tournament. However, not all news was positive for the French team. Defensive stalwart Rudy Gobert was hampered by a finger injury, limiting his playtime to just 21 minutes over the last three games, a significant blow to France's defensive schema.
Strategic Shifts
As Team USA and other squads reflect on their performances, notable shifts are happening in the NBA landscape. Eligible for his 10th season, Devin Booker has seen his role evolve significantly. Last season, he achieved a career-high 6.3 assists per game, a testament to his growing versatility and playmaking ability. Moving forward, he will be joining forces with Mike Budenholzer, aiming to take the Phoenix Suns to new heights.
Meanwhile, changes are also afoot for the Golden State Warriors. As they prepare for the new season, the team will enter a new era without Klay Thompson. The dynamic of the Warriors’ roster will be closely watched by fans and analysts alike.
The 2024 Olympics offered a rich tapestry of stories, memorable performances, and shifts that will ripple through both international and league play. It was a display of basketball at its finest, featuring remarkable individual achievements and collective triumphs that will be remembered for years to come.