The 2024 Paris Olympics men's basketball tournament has reached its penultimate stage, with France, the United States, Germany, and Serbia emerging as semifinalists. Each team has fought fiercely to secure their spot, showcasing remarkable talent and resilience.
France's Path to the Semifinals
France stamped their ticket to the semifinals after overcoming Canada with an 82-73 victory. The dynamic duo of Guerschon Yabusele and Isaia Cordinier led the charge for the French team, combining for an impressive 42 points. Their performance was critical in fending off a determined Canadian squad.
Interestingly, Rudy Gobert, a cornerstone of the French defense, was benched for most of the game, playing only three minutes. Despite this unexpected move, the French team managed to secure a win, underscoring their depth and versatility.
Team USA Dominates
The United States continued its dominance in the tournament with a decisive win over Brazil in the quarterfinals. Joel Embiid was a standout performer, scoring 14 points and grabbing seven rebounds in just the first half, setting the tone for the match. Team USA's formidable presence and strategic gameplay have paid off, as evidenced by their recent track record; they’ve beaten Serbia twice in the past two months, with an average winning margin of 26 points.
Germany's Unstoppable Run
Germany, the defending FIBA World Cup champions, has been a force to be reckoned with throughout the tournament. Remaining undefeated, Germany advanced to the semifinals by overwhelming Greece. During their quarterfinal match, Germany outscored Greece 65-42 in the final three quarters, showcasing their offensive strength and defensive tenacity.
Franz Wagner played a pivotal role, contributing 18 points, while Dennis Schroder added 13 points, ensuring their team continued its unbeaten streak. Germany’s consistency and championship mindset make them strong contenders in the semifinals.
Serbia's Stunning Comeback
Serbia's journey to the semifinals was marked by a dramatic comeback against Australia. Facing a daunting 24-point deficit in the first half, Serbia clawed their way back into the game, thanks in large part to a near triple-double performance by Nikola Jokic. Jokic was a powerhouse, recording 21 points, 14 rebounds, nine assists, four steals, and two blocks, leading Serbia to an improbable victory.
This tenacity and ability to perform under pressure have propelled Serbia into the semifinals, setting the stage for an intriguing clash with other basketball powerhouses.
With the semifinals now set, each team brings unique strengths and storylines. From France's depth and Team USA's dominance, to Germany's unbeaten run and Serbia's resilience, fans are in for thrilling matchups as these basketball titans vie for Olympic glory in Paris.