The 2024 Olympics showcased some of the most sensational basketball moments in recent history. A 16-day whirlwind of athletic prowess concluded with Team USA clinching their 17th gold medal, defeating France 98-87 in a riveting final. This victory, however, was punctuated by several standout performances and unexpected narratives that captivated audiences worldwide.
France's Surprising Journey
In one of the most shocking upsets of the knockout rounds, France overcame a formidable Canada team, positioning themselves as serious contenders. While star player Victor Wembanyama had a strong showing, averaging 15.8 points, 9.8 rebounds, 3.3 assists, 2.0 steals, and 1.7 blocks per game, the team faced a significant setback with Rudy Gobert's finger injury, which limited him to just 21 minutes over France's final three games.
Nikola Jokic Leads Serbia
Another highlight of the tournament was Nikola Jokic leading Serbia to its first medal since 2016. Jokic's performance was instrumental in revitalizing Serbian basketball on the global stage and provided a compelling subplot to the overall narrative of the Olympics.
USA's Quest for Gold
Team USA's journey to the gold medal was not without its challenges and surprises. Stephen Curry, making his Olympic debut at the 2024 tournament, had a rocky start. Over the first four games, he managed only 12 points, a surprising statistic for the NBA superstar. However, Curry found his stride in the semifinals, delivering an astonishing 36-point performance against Serbia.
In the final against France, Curry continued to shine, contributing 24 points and sinking four consecutive three-pointers in the crucial moments, securing Team USA's victory. Notably, Curry scored 12 straight points in the game's decisive stretch, cementing his place in Olympic lore.
Devin Booker's Versatility
Devin Booker also played a critical role in Team USA's success. Averaging 11.7 points per game and shooting an impressive 56.5% from beyond the arc, Booker's contributions were significant. Despite a relatively limited role during the medal rounds, playing just 23 combined minutes, Booker's impact was undeniable.
Coach Steve Kerr heaped praise on Booker, stating, "Devin was incredible. He completely changed his role from the NBA to now. He was kind of our unsung MVP." Such versatility and adaptability underscore Booker's importance to the team and highlight his growth as a player.
Looking Ahead
As the NBA season approaches, several players from the Olympics will be watched closely. Devin Booker, entering his 10th season with the Phoenix Suns under new head coach Mike Budenholzer, is coming off a season where he achieved a career-high 6.3 assists per game. His experience and performance in the Olympics are likely to influence his play in the upcoming season.
Meanwhile, the Golden State Warriors are set to begin a new era without Klay Thompson. This transition marks a significant shift for a team that has been a dominant force in the NBA over the past decade.
The 2024 Olympics not only celebrated the pinnacle of basketball excellence but also set the stage for future storylines in the basketball world. The performances of Curry, Booker, Jokic, and Wembanyama will be discussed and analyzed for years to come, highlighting the ever-evolving narrative of international basketball.