The Paris 2024 Olympics featured a diverse range of sports, including several unique disciplines that added excitement and a distinct flavor to the Games. From the urban thrills of skateboarding and breaking to the aquatic prowess of surfing and the adrenaline-pumping action of mountain biking, these sports showcased a dynamic blend of athleticism, creativity, and modern culture.
The Netherlands secured gold in the men’s 3×3 basketball, defeating France in a nail-biting final at the Paris 2024 Olympics. Meanwhile, Germany clinched its first-ever international title in the women’s tournament, edging out Spain in a dramatic finish. Both finals saw incredible displays of skill and athleticism.
The defending champion USA women’s 3×3 basketball team secured their third straight victory in pool play at the Paris Olympics with an overtime win against Canada. This comes after experiencing three consecutive losses to start the tournament. The team’s determination and resilience were evident as they battled back from a challenging start.
The reigning champion US women’s 3×3 basketball team suffered their third consecutive defeat at the Paris Olympics, falling to Australia 17-15. The team’s prospects of qualifying directly for the semi-finals are dwindling, and they now rely on the repechage round for a chance to reach the last four. Meanwhile, Latvia emerged as the only undefeated team in the men’s tournament, while Serbia claimed victory over the Netherlands in a close match.
Canada’s women’s 3×3 basketball team showcased their dominance by winning the first stop of the 2024 Women’s Series in Springfield, Massachusetts. Despite a challenging game against the star-studded American team, the Canadians emerged victorious with a 20-18 scoreline. Led by tournament MVP Katherine Plouffe, the team executed sharp movements and capitalized on open looks to secure the win. This victory marks their second consecutive Women’s Series Final title defense, demonstrating their ongoing success. While Canada has yet to qualify for the Paris Olympics, they have upcoming opportunities to secure a spot through tournaments in Japan and Hungary.
Katie Lou Samuelson Gray returns to the USA Basketball 3×3 team with her eyes set on the 2024 Paris Olympics. Gray, along with other talented players like Dearica Hamby, Cameron Brink, and Linnae Harper, will compete in a 3×3 tournament in Springfield. The Americans will eventually select four players for the Paris roster based on accumulated points and FIBA competition experience. National team coach Jennifer Rizzotti highlights the challenging task of selecting the team due to the dedication and contributions of several players.
