In a thrilling semifinal showdown at the 2024 Paris Olympics, Team USA staged a remarkable comeback to defeat Serbia 95-91, earning their spot in the gold medal game against host nation France. The contest was a testament to the resilience and skill of the American squad, as they overcame a 17-point deficit to secure the victory.
Stephen Curry's Spectacular Performance
Leading the charge for Team USA was none other than Stephen Curry, who delivered a spectacular performance, scoring 36 points, including nine 3-pointers. Curry’s impressive shooting display fell just one triple short of Carmelo Anthony’s Olympic record of 10 three-pointers set against Nigeria in 2012. The Golden State Warriors star had only scored a total of 29 points in Team USA's first four games, making his explosive output in the semifinal all the more remarkable.
Contributions from Team USA's Veterans
Not to be overshadowed, Joel Embiid added a valuable 19 points, while LeBron James and Kevin Durant made crucial baskets in the dying moments of the game to keep Team USA’s gold medal hopes alive. Their veteran leadership and timely scoring proved instrumental in turning the tide against a resilient Serbian team.
Serbia's Strong Showing
On the Serbian side, Nikola Jokic’s double-double with 17 points and 11 assists was a significant contribution, complemented by Bogdan Bogdanovic’s 20-point performance. Despite their efforts, Serbia couldn’t withstand Team USA’s late surge and will now compete against Germany for the bronze medal.
Reactions and Reflections
The basketball community responded enthusiastically to the clash. Damian Lillard, Ja Morant, and Trae Young expressed their admiration for the thrilling contest. 76ers guard Tyrese Maxey praised Curry's performance, recognizing his teammate's critical role in the victory.
Knicks guards Josh Hart and Deuce McBride, as well as Jazz guard Jordan Clarkson, shared their reflections and celebrated the high-stakes narrative of the game. Mavericks guard Quentin Grimes joined in, highlighting the dramatic shifts and standout performances that defined the encounter.
From the Hall of Fame, Magic Johnson lauded the players' efforts, offering his insights on the game's intensity and competitive spirit. Legendary international players Pau Gasol and Manu Ginobili echoed these sentiments, reflecting on the impactful plays that made the semifinal clash a memorable event. Former NBA guard Evan Turner also highlighted the significance of such enthralling encounters in international basketball, noting their contribution to the sport's global appeal.
The stage is now set for an exciting final between Team USA and France, as the American team looks to cap off their Olympic journey with a gold medal.