PARIS:
The United States men’s basketball team secured their fifth consecutive gold medal at the Paris Olympics on Saturday with a 98-87 victory over France. Despite hopes for a “Miracle on the Seine,” the French team fell short, losing to a dominant American squad led by Stephen Curry and LeBron James. James, wearing gold sneakers to mark the occasion, played a pivotal role alongside Curry, who scored 24 points, including eight three-pointers.
The loss was particularly painful for the French, as it occurred on home soil at the Bercy Arena, with the nation’s hopes pinned on the team.
France’s coach, Vincent Collet, acknowledged the Americans’ superior talent, saying, “It’s their incredible talent that ended up marking the difference.”
The atmosphere at the arena was electric, with President Emmanuel Macron among the spectators, hoping for a historic French victory.
The game, filled with tension, skill, and emotion, began with a powerful dunk by James, setting the tone for a fast-paced contest. The Americans built a 14-point lead in the third quarter, but France, spurred on by a passionate home crowd, narrowed the gap to 82-79 with just three minutes remaining. However, Curry, as he had done in the semi-finals against Serbia, stepped up in the crucial moments, sinking three long-range three-pointers to secure the win for the US.
James contributed 14 points, 10 assists, and six rebounds, while Curry’s performance ensured the Americans maintained their dominance in Olympic basketball.
France will have another opportunity for gold on Sunday when their women’s team faces the US, although they are considered significant underdogs against the reigning champions.