Team USA Triumphs Over Serbia in Olympic Semi-Finals
In a gripping semifinal clash at the 2024 Paris Olympics, Team USA edged out Serbia with a nail-biting 95-91 victory to secure their spot in the gold medal game. The win sets up a highly anticipated showdown against host nation France on Saturday.
Team USA demonstrated incredible resilience, erasing a daunting 17-point deficit against a formidable Serbian team. Stephen Curry lit up the court with a sensational performance, scoring 36 points, including nine three-pointers. Curry's shooting display left him just one three-pointer shy of Carmelo Anthony’s Olympic record of 10, which was set against Nigeria in 2012.
Throughout the contest, Curry’s shooting was pivotal. Joel Embiid also made a significant contribution, adding 19 points, while LeBron James and Kevin Durant provided crucial baskets late in the game to secure the win for Team USA. Notably, Curry had only scored a total of 29 points across Team USA’s first four games, making his explosive performance in the semifinals even more remarkable.
For Serbia, Nikola Jokic displayed his all-around skills, recording 17 points and 11 assists. Bogdan Bogdanovic led the scoring for Serbia with 20 points. Despite their efforts, Serbia couldn’t hold off the American surge and will now face Germany in the bronze medal game.
This semifinal was not just about the scoreline but also the electrifying moments and the reactions it inspired among the basketball community. Star players such as Damian Lillard, Ja Morant, and Trae Young shared their awe and admiration for the contest, highlighting the intense and thrilling nature of the game. “76ers guard Tyrese Maxey praised his teammate’s performance,” adding to the chorus of appreciation for Curry’s heroics.
The celebratory mood extended through social media, where Knicks guards Josh Hart and Deuce McBride, along with Jazz guard Jordan Clarkson, reflected on the game's significance and excitement. Mavericks guard Quentin Grimes also joined in to celebrate the game's dramatic shifts and standout performances, emphasizing the narrative that captivated fans globally.
Basketball legends and Hall of Famers also weighed in on the epic clash. Magic Johnson, renowned for his insightful commentary, lauded the players' efforts, noting the high level of competition and skill on display. Spain's Pau Gasol and Argentina's Manu Ginobili echoed similar sentiments. Gasol and Ginobili, both retired international stars, reflected on the impactful plays that defined the semifinal encounter.
Adding to the chorus of voices, former NBA guard Evan Turner highlighted the significance of such enthralling encounters in international basketball, emphasizing how games like these elevate the sport's global profile.
As Team USA prepares to face France in the gold medal game, this semifinal victory against Serbia will be remembered for the exceptional performances, dramatic comebacks, and the profound respect it garnered from the global basketball community. The stage is set for another historic matchup, as fans worldwide eagerly await the final chapter of this Olympic basketball saga.