The United States basketball teams, both men and women, showcased their dominance at the Paris Olympics, defending their titles and securing their eighth and fifth consecutive gold medals respectively. The Games in Paris witnessed a rise in global basketball talent, creating a thrilling rivalry between the USA and host nation France.
The group stage in northern France was a testament to the sport’s global reach, with teams from Africa, Latin America, and Asia demonstrating their skills. South Sudan and Nigeria represented Africa, while Brazil and Puerto Rico competed for Latin America. Japan and China represented Asia, adding to the diversity and excitement of the tournament.
However, the real battle for gold began at the Bercy Arena in Paris, where France aimed to dethrone the American powerhouse. The U.S. men’s team faced a challenging journey, overcoming Brazil in the quarterfinals but struggling against Serbia, needing a dramatic fourth-quarter surge to secure their spot in the final. The Serbian team, led by three-time NBA Most Valuable Player Nikola Jokic, proved to be a formidable opponent.
Victor Wembanyama, the first French player to be selected number one overall in the NBA draft, played a pivotal role in France’s path to the final, leading his team past Canada and Germany.
On the women’s side, France reached the semifinals after a convincing victory over Germany, showcasing the talents of Marine Johannes and Gabby Williams. They then secured their place in the final by defeating Belgium. The U.S. women’s team faced a strong challenge from Nigeria, the first African team to reach the quarterfinals, before rallying with a stellar performance from Breanna Stewart to defeat Australia in the semifinals.
The stage was set for a thrilling doubleheader of finals. The American women edged out France 67-66 in a nail-biting contest to claim their historic eighth consecutive Olympic crown. Diana Taurasi, a legend of the game, earned her sixth Olympic gold medal.
The U.S. men’s team lived up to expectations, defeating France 98-87 in the men’s final. LeBron James and Stephen Curry led the way, with Curry’s four three-pointers in the closing minutes securing their fifth consecutive gold medal.
The Paris Games provided a stern test for the American basketball powerhouses. Despite facing formidable competition, they proved their mettle, leaving no doubt about their status as the dominant force in the sport. Their eyes are now set on the 2028 Olympics in Los Angeles, where they will aim to continue their reign of dominance.
