USA Wins Over France: 98-87 Secures Fifth Straight Olympic Gold

Stephen Curry Leads the Charge

The USA Basketball Men’s National Team has won the gold medal for five consecutive years, and this is the 17th gold medal in 20 games. They defeat France 98-87 in the final at Bercy Arena.

With no doubt, Curry was the star of the gold medal game. He finished with 24 points and hit eight 3-pointers. Saving his best for last, including several clutch shots in the final minutes that sealed the victory for Team USA. His performance capped off a stellar Olympic debut. Curry has transformed from a struggling shooter in the early rounds to the unstoppable force to led the USA to gold.

“I’ve seen it before,” said LeBron James. “But what he did today, under these circumstances, was something special.”

LeBron James Defies Time

LeBron James once again proved why he is considered one of the greatest basketball players of all time at 39 years old. He recorded 14 points, 10 assists, and six rebounds. James led the USA team with his experience and playmaking. His leadership was important throughout the tournament, and his ability to perform at such a high level in what may be his final Olympics is nothing short of remarkable.

“It’s incredible to still be able to play at this level and win another gold medal,” James said. “This team, these guys, it’s been an amazing journey.”

Kevin Durant: Historic Achievement

Durant became the first player in Olympic history to win four men’s basketball gold medals. This is another honor for Durant. Durant scored 15 points in the final, playing a key role on both ends of the floor. His impact, both as a scorer and a leader, was evident throughout the tournament, and he solidified his place as one of the greatest international players of all time.

“There’s a reason KD keeps doing this,” said U.S. Coach Steve Kerr. “He loves it, and he’s great at it.”

The Game: A Battle Until the End

The gold medal game was far from easy for Team USA. France, led by the 20-year-old NBA sensation Victor Wembanyama, who scored 26 points and grabbed seven rebounds, pushed the Americans to their limits. The game was tightly contested from the start, with six lead changes in the first quarter alone. France’s physical defense and timely scoring kept them within striking distance throughout the game.

In the third quarter, the U.S. managed to build a 14-point lead, but France fought back, narrowing the gap to just three points with three minutes remaining. Wembanyama’s dominance in the paint and Guerschon Yabusele’s 20-point performance kept the pressure on the Americans.

However, it was Curry’s late-game heroics that ultimately made the difference. He hit three consecutive 3-pointers in the final three minutes, each one more difficult than the last, to put the game out of reach. His final 3-pointer, a step-back jumper with just over a minute left, sealed the victory and sent the U.S. bench into a frenzy.

“I was just trying to settle us down,” Curry said. “The first one, we were up three and momentum was on their side, so I just got to a spot. At that point, your mind goes blank, you don’t care about the setting or the scenario or anything. Thankfully that one went and settled us down.”

Steve Kerr’s Coaching Legacy

Steve Kerr, who has now won nine NBA championships as a player and coach and two Olympic gold medals (one as an assistant), deserves immense credit for guiding this team to victory. He managed the egos and expectations of a star-studded roster, finding the right combinations and rotations to maximize their strengths. Kerr’s ability to adapt to FIBA’s style of play and his trust in the team’s veterans were key to their success.

“You can’t buy this feeling, or working with a group that does something special,” Kerr said. “This team had the right mix of talent, experience, and desire, and they showed it when it mattered most.”

France’s Future is Bright

While France fell short of gold, their future in international basketball looks promising. With Wembanyama leading the way, and a strong pipeline of young talent emerging, France is poised to be a formidable force in the coming years. The Los Angeles Olympics in 2028 could represent their best chance to dethrone the U.S.

For now, though, the night belonged to Team USA, who once again proved why they are the gold standard in Olympic basketball. As the final buzzer sounded, the American players celebrated their victory, their place in history secure.

“It wasn’t easy, but we did it,” Curry said with a smile. “This is what it’s all about.”

The USA’s win in Paris adds another chapter to their storied Olympic legacy, one built on talent, resilience, and an unyielding desire to be the best in the world.

Team USA Men’s 5×5 Olympic Games Schedule 2024

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