In a stunning comeback, Team USA overcame a 17-point deficit to secure a thrilling 95-91 victory over Serbia in the semifinals of the 2024 Paris Olympics. The victory propels the American squad into the gold medal game against host nation France on Saturday.
Curry's Heroics
Stephen Curry was the undeniable star of the contest, delivering a mesmerizing performance that saw him score 36 points and drain nine 3-pointers. He fell just one 3-pointer short of tying Carmelo Anthony’s Olympic record of 10, set against Nigeria in 2012. In stark contrast to his earlier games, where he had scored only 29 points cumulatively, Curry's electrifying play was instrumental in Team USA's comeback.
76ers guard Tyrese Maxey couldn't hold back his admiration, praising Curry’s outstanding performance, which was also lauded by fellow NBA stars Damian Lillard, Ja Morant, and Trae Young. The thrilling nature of the contest had spectators and players alike on the edge of their seats. Mavericks guard Quentin Grimes joined the celebration, highlighting the game’s dramatic shifts and standout moments.
Supporting Cast Shines
While Curry stole the spotlight, his teammates' contributions were equally vital. Joel Embiid added 19 points to the tally. LeBron James and Kevin Durant made crucial baskets late in the game, further solidifying Team USA's path to victory.
Nikola Jokic recorded a double-double for Serbia with 17 points and 11 assists, while Bogdan Bogdanovic led Serbia's scoring with 20 points. Despite the loss, Serbia will have a chance to compete for a bronze medal against Germany, providing some consolation for a team that played valiantly but ultimately fell short.
Post-Game Reactions
The game drew widespread reactions from the basketball community. Knicks guards Josh Hart and Deuce McBride, along with Jazz guard Jordan Clarkson, shared their reflections on social media, encapsulating the buzz and excitement surrounding the game. From the Hall of Fame, Magic Johnson offered his insights, lauding the players' efforts and the quality of play exhibited on such a grand stage.
Spain's Pau Gasol and Argentina's Manu Ginobili, both legends of international basketball, echoed similar sentiments. They reflected on the impactful plays that defined the semifinal clash, recognizing the high stakes and immense skill on display. Former NBA guard Evan Turner also contributed to the conversation, emphasizing the significance of such enthralling encounters in the landscape of international basketball.
Looking Ahead
As anticipation builds for the gold medal clash against France, Team USA will undoubtedly rely on the momentum generated from their semifinal victory. The host nation, buoyed by passionate home support, will pose a formidable challenge. With Curry and his teammates performing at such a high level, fans can expect another memorable showdown in Paris.