The men's basketball tournament at the 2024 Paris Olympics has reached its climactic stage, with France, the United States, Germany, and Serbia emerging as the semifinalists. Each team has shown remarkable prowess and resilience to earn their coveted spots in the final four. Let's delve into the standout moments and key performances that defined their journeys to the semifinals.
France's Victory Over Canada
France clinched their semifinal berth by overcoming a spirited Canada team in an 82-73 victory. The dynamic duo of Guerschon Yabusele and Isaia Cordinier played pivotal roles, combining for an impressive 42 points. Yabusele dominated the paint, while Cordinier's sharpshooting kept the scoreboard ticking.
Interestingly, star center Rudy Gobert was notably absent for most of the game, logging a mere three minutes on the court. This strategic benching by the French coaching staff paid off, as the team managed to maintain control and secure the win without relying heavily on their defensive anchor.
Team USA's Dominant Display
The United States continued their tradition of basketball excellence with a decisive victory over Brazil in the quarterfinals. America’s depth and versatility were on full display as Joel Embiid led the charge, scoring 14 points and grabbing seven rebounds in the first half alone. Team USA’s balanced attack and tenacious defense left Brazil struggling to keep pace.
This performance only cements the United States' dominance further, having previously beaten Serbia twice in the last two months by an average margin of 26 points. As the tournament progresses, Team USA remains the favorite to snatch the gold, buoyed by their rich history and formidably deep roster.
Germany's Unbeaten Run
Germany has shown themselves to be an indomitable force, emerging from the quarterfinals unscathed. As the defending FIBA World Cup champions, they have carried their winning momentum into the Olympics. Their latest victory came at the expense of Greece, whom they outscored 65-42 over the final three quarters.
Franz Wagner and Dennis Schroder spearheaded the German offense, contributing 18 and 13 points respectively. Germany's balanced and consistent performances have made them a team to watch out for in the semifinals, as they seek to keep their unbeaten record intact.
Serbia's Remarkable Comeback
Serbia's journey to the semifinals was nothing short of dramatic. Trailing by a staggering 24 points in the first half against Australia, the Serbians mounted an extraordinary comeback to clinch the victory. Nikola Jokic was the catalyst for this turnaround, delivering a near triple-double with 21 points, 14 rebounds, nine assists, four steals, and two blocks.
Jokic’s all-around performance lifted Serbia from the brink of elimination, showcasing his MVP-caliber talent. His ability to influence all facets of the game makes him a critical asset for Serbia as they gear up for the semifinals.
With these four powerhouse teams advancing, the stage is set for an electrifying culmination to the men's basketball tournament at the Paris Olympics. Each team brings its unique style and strengths to the table, promising thrilling matchups and unforgettable basketball action.