The US men’s and women’s basketball teams continued their Olympic dominance as both teams prevailed over France in the finals this weekend.
The men’s team secured its fifth consecutive gold medal in a 98-87 win led by Stephen Curry. Curry struggled earlier in the tournament but found his rhythm just in time, shooting a combined 17-for-26 from beyond the arc in the finals and semifinals. LeBron James contributed 14 points, 6 rebounds, 10 assists, and was named the Olympics MVP for his 66% shooting throughout the tournament. Kevin Durant and Devin Booker also played significant roles, with Durant becoming the first men’s basketball player to win four Olympic golds (Paris, Tokyo, Rio, London). France’s Victor Wembanyama delivered a valiant effort and led all scorers with 26 points, but it wasn’t enough to overcome Team USA’s 18-for-36 shooting from 3.
In the women’s final, Team USA defeated France in a 67-66 thriller to secure their eighth consecutive gold (going back to ’96). Kahleah Copper’s clutch free throws in the final seconds sealed the win. A’ja Wilson led the team with 21 points and 13 rebounds, and was named MVP of the tournament. The victory marked the 61st consecutive Olympic win for the US women’s team, which hasn’t lost since 1992 (Barcelona).
The US needed both gold medals to cement its status as the overall winner of the 2024 Summer Games, finishing atop the standings for all three medal counts. China came in second place with an equal number of gold medals (40) but fewer silver and bronze.