In a thrilling semifinal clash at the 2024 Paris Olympics, Team USA triumphed over Serbia with a narrow 95-91 victory, securing their spot in the gold medal game against France. The win was marked by a spectacular performance across the board, with standout contributions from both veterans and newcomers.
Curry's Shooting Clinic
Leading the charge for Team USA was Stephen Curry, who delivered a masterful performance. Curry scored an impressive 36 points, hitting nine 3-pointers, and came tantalizingly close to breaking Carmelo Anthony’s Olympic record of 10 three-pointers in a single game, set against Nigeria in 2012. Reflecting on his performance, Curry displayed the same humility that has defined his career, acknowledging the monumental effort it took to overcome Serbia's early lead.
“76ers guard Tyrese Maxey praised his teammate’s performance,” highlighting the significant impact Curry had on the game.
Contributions from Across the Roster
The victory was not solely a one-man show. Joel Embiid contributed 19 points, providing a solid presence in the paint. LeBron James and Kevin Durant also made key late baskets, underlining their critical roles in the team’s success. Throughout the game, Team USA showcased their depth and talent, erasing a formidable 17-point deficit against a resilient Serbian team.
On the Serbian side, Nikola Jokic recorded 17 points and 11 assists, while Bogdan Bogdanovic scored 20 points. Despite their best efforts, Serbia could not hold off the American comeback and will now face Germany in the bronze medal game.
Reflections and Tributes
The game’s intensity and high stakes drew reactions from various basketball luminaries. Damian Lillard, Ja Morant, and Trae Young expressed their admiration for the thrilling contest.
"Lillard, Grizzlies standout Ja Morant, and Hawks guard Trae Young expressed their admiration for the thrilling contest," reflecting the widespread appreciation for the high-level play on display.
From the Hall of Fame, Magic Johnson offered his insights on the game, lauding the players' efforts. “From the Hall of Fame, Magic Johnson offered his insights on the game, lauding the players' efforts,” providing a seal of approval from one of basketball’s greats.
Spain legend Pau Gasol and Argentina's Manu Ginobili echoed similar sentiments, reflecting on the impactful plays that defined the semifinal clash. "Spain legend Pau Gasol and Argentina's Manu Ginobili echoed similar sentiments, reflecting on the impactful plays that defined the semifinal clash," demonstrating the international significance of the match.
Former NBA guard Evan Turner added to the conversation, highlighting the significance of such enthralling encounters in international basketball. "Former NBA guard Evan Turner added to the conversation, highlighting the significance of such enthralling encounters in international basketball," underscoring the broader implications for the sport.
Support from Peers
The inspiring performances did not go unnoticed by current NBA stars and peers. Knicks guards Josh Hart and Deuce McBride, as well as Jazz guard Jordan Clarkson, weighed in with their reflections. Mavericks guard Quentin Grimes joined in the celebration of the game’s thrilling narrative, underscored by its dramatic shifts and standout performances.
"Knicks guards Josh Hart and Deuce McBride, as well as Jazz guard Jordan Clarkson, weighed in with their reflections.” Their comments added depth to the appreciation for the game.
"Mavericks guard Quentin Grimes joined in the celebration of the game’s thrilling narrative, underscored by its dramatic shifts and standout performances,” signaling the game's impact on both players and fans alike.
A Historic Win and What's Next
As Team USA prepares to face France in the gold medal game, the win over Serbia serves as a testament to their resilience and elite skill level. The comeback victory was a showcase of teamwork, strategic adjustments, and individual brilliance, epitomized by Curry’s shooting, Embiid's inside presence, and clutch moments from James and Durant.
With the stage set for an epic showdown against France, the world will be eagerly watching to see if Team USA can bring home the gold, adding another chapter to their storied Olympic history.