The 2024 Paris Olympics will be remembered as a triumphant chapter in the history of American basketball. Both the men’s and women’s teams from Team USA pulled out a victory in their respective finals against France, earning gold medals and solidifying their place as Olympic champions. This double victory not only added to the United States’ storied Olympic basketball legacy but ensured a dramatic close to the Games, allowing Team USA to finish tied with China at the top of the gold medal count with 40 each, while decisively leading in total medals.
Men’s Team: The Avengers Assemble
On the men’s side, the team, nicknamed “The Avengers” for its star-studded roster, lived up to the hype. In a thrilling final against host nation France, Team USA earned a 98-87 victory, marking their fifth consecutive Olympic gold.
Steph Curry, making his Olympic debut at age 36, was brilliant. Despite a slow start, he finished the game with 24 points, all from beyond the arc, including a stunning display in the final minutes where he hit four three-pointers in quick succession to put the game out of reach.
His performance throughout the tournament, particularly in the crucial semifinal against Serbia, was instrumental in leading Team USA to gold. For Curry, this Olympic gold was the final accolade needed to complete one of the most decorated careers in basketball history.
LeBron James, returning to the Olympics after a 12-year hiatus, was named the tournament MVP. His leadership and all-around play were pivotal to the team’s success. James led the tournament in advanced stats, with a Game Score of 29.5, efficiency of 141, and tied for second with Kevin Durant in plus-minus with a score of 84. Over the course of the Games, he averaged 14.2 points (2nd) on 66% shooting(1st), along with 8.5 assists(1st) and 6.8 rebounds (1st) per game. James’ performance in Paris not only added a third Olympic gold to his résumé but also reinforced his status as one of the greatest players in the sport’s history.
Durant’s Record-Breaking Achievement
Kevin Durant’s contribution to Team USA’s victory cannot be overlooked. With his fourth gold medal, Durant became the most decorated Olympic basketball player in U.S. history. Known for his clutch performances on the international stage, Durant once again delivered when it mattered most, adding 15 points in the final game and stepping up in critical moments throughout the tournament.
Durant’s legacy in Olympic basketball is unmatched. He now holds the U.S. Olympic records for most points, rebounds, field goals made, three-pointers made, and free throws made. His consistent excellence over four Olympic Games has made him a cornerstone of Team USA’s success.
The image of Team USA’s players locking arms as they stepped onto the Olympic podium will be remembered as a powerful moment of unity and achievement. LeBron James, in his metallic gold shoes, playfully crowned himself as he received his medal, while Stephen Curry, experiencing his first Olympic medal ceremony, took in the moment—likely his last on this stage. For Kevin Durant, Devin Booker, and the rest of this star-studded team, this victory was a witness to their legendary status as all-time icons of American basketball. The game attracted 19.5 million viewers becoming the most watched gold medal game since the 1996 Olympics.
A Historic Feat for Women’s Basketball
A day after the Men won their gold medal against France, The U.S. women’s basketball team followed up with a gold medal victory against France. With their nail-biting 67-66 win over France, they captured their eighth consecutive Olympic gold, setting a record in the sport that no other nation has ever achieved. The victory was hard-fought, with France pushing the Americans to the brink in a game that came down to the final buzzer. Gabby Williams of France nearly sent the game into overtime with a last-second shot, but her foot was just inside the three-point line, sealing the win for Team USA by a single point.
This historic eighth gold medal extended the team’s winning streak, dating back to the 1992 Barcelona Games, and also cemented their dominance in international women’s basketball. The victory was an emotional one, particularly for players like Diana Taurasi, who now stands alone as the only basketball player, male or female, to win six Olympic gold medals despite not playing in the final.
As the Paris Olympics drew to a close, the U.S. reminded the world why they remain a dominant force in international basketball. The gold medals won by both the men’s and women’s teams weren’t just about adding to their impressive medal count; they were about showcasing the depth, skill, and determination that continue to define Team USA on the global stage.
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