Canada will not be seeing the bright lights of the gold medal game at the 2024 Paris Olympics men's basketball competition, as they fell to France in a surprising 82-73 defeat during the quarterfinals. Despite entering the game as eight-point favorites, Canada's Olympic journey was curtailed by France's formidable defense and efficient scoring.
The Canadians found themselves on the back foot early, managing only 10 points in the first quarter, while France established dominance and built a comfortable lead. By halftime, Canada trailed 45-29, a deficit that proved too arduous to overcome.
Individual Performances
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander was the standout for Canada, pouring in 27 points, yet his efforts fell short against the disciplined and strategic French defense. Reflecting on the game, Gilgeous-Alexander expressed frustration, saying, "We all wanted to win. I don't know why we started out that way, but it does. It hurts us."
France’s victory was propelled by a balanced team effort. Guerschon Yabusele led the way with 22 points, while Evan Fournier provided a spark off the bench, contributing 15 points. Rising star Victor Wembanyama added seven points in a game that showcased both his potential and the collective prowess of the French team. Rudy Gobert, though limited to just three minutes of play, was part of the defensive scheme that stifled Canada's rhythm.
Canada's Struggles
Canada's offensive struggles were apparent throughout the game. Jamal Murray, who had been averaging 5.6 points and shooting a mere 33.9% from the field during the tournament, continued to struggle. Murray managed only seven points on 3 of 13 shooting from the field, emphasizing the team's difficulties in finding offensive cohesion. His woes from beyond the arc continued, as he went 2 for 14 on three-point attempts throughout the tournament.
RJ Barrett added 16 points but found little support from the rest of the squad, with no other Canadian player scoring in double figures. Canada's bench contributed a total of 16 points, reflecting their inability to match France's depth and intensity.
Turnover Troubles and Disappointment
Turnovers were a significant issue for both teams, but Canada’s 14 turnovers matched their 14 assists, indicative of their disjointed play. France, despite turning the ball over 17 times, capitalized on their offensive chances and maintained control throughout the game. Canadian head coach Jordi Fernandez voiced his disappointment, noting, "We didn't match their energy and physicality. Offensively, I thought it was our most selfish game. We didn't share the ball."
Canada's early exit marks a disappointing end to their first Olympic appearance since the 2000 Sydney Games. This milestone tournament came with high hopes and expectations, especially with luminaries like Gilgeous-Alexander and Barrett leading the charge. However, the harsh realities of international competition were laid bare in their quarterfinal performance.
Adding to the challenges, incoming NBA rookie Zach Edey withdrew from the Olympic roster to focus on his debut season with the Memphis Grizzlies, a loss felt keenly by the team.
Looking Ahead
Lu Dort captured the collective sentiment of the team when he succinctly stated the task ahead: "It's really disappointing. We had goals to get all the way to the end. When it gets cut short, it's tough and we have to live with it. We have to do whatever it takes to get back in four years."
Canada's aspirations in Paris may have been dashed, but the experience gleaned from this journey is vital. With young stars and seasoned veterans, the foundational work laid in these Olympic games could serve as the building blocks for future success. The message is unequivocal: a recalibration is necessary, and the path forward is paved with renewed determination and resolve.