France’s Victory Paves Way to Historic Gold Medal Game
France’s men’s basketball team is on the cusp of making history as they advance to the gold-medal game at the 2024 Paris Olympics. A thrilling 73-69 victory over Germany in the semifinals has secured their spot, marking the first time since the 1996 Atlanta Olympics that the host nation will vie for the top honor in men’s basketball.
This journey has been anything but straightforward for the French team. Coming out of a turbulent group stage, France narrowly escaped with a win against Japan and suffered a significant loss to Germany. However, they regrouped to overcome Canada in the quarterfinals, setting up a rematch with Germany that saw them avenge their earlier defeat.
Back and Forth Battle
The semifinal clash against Germany was a nail-biter. France faced an early scare when Germany closed a 13-point deficit late in the game. Victor Wembanyama played a critical role, finishing with 11 points, seven rebounds, four assists, and three blocks. Despite hitting only 4 of 17 from the floor, his defensive prowess shone brightly at crucial moments.
One of the game’s defining sequences occurred in the fourth quarter when Wembanyama blocked a critical 3-point attempt by Dennis Schroder, followed by a three-pointer from Frank Ntilikina that gave France a much-needed cushion. Wembanyama wasn’t done; he blocked Schroder again on a drive towards the rim, underlining his defensive impact.
Significant Contributions
Guerschon Yabusele was instrumental, leading the team with 17 points, seven rebounds, and two assists. Isaia Cordinier also had a significant impact, adding 16 points, seven rebounds, two assists, and two steals. Mathias Lessort provided valuable minutes off the bench, stepping up as Head coach Vincent Collet opted to sit Rudy Gobert. Gobert played only five minutes against Germany and three minutes against Canada, which was a surprising decision given his stature in the team.
Cordinier’s and Yabusele’s contributions were critical, especially in a game where Germany managed to score 28 points in the paint. The French defense, anchored by the formidable presence of Wembanyama, ultimately held firm under pressure.
Focus on Gold
Reflecting on the victory, Victor Wembanyama was moved by the support of the home crowd. “The fans made it hard for me not to cry,” he revealed, acknowledging the emotional weight of the win. With an opportunity to win their first-ever gold medal in men’s basketball, Wembanyama emphasized the team’s focus. “It’s a chance to write history,” he remarked, capturing the team’s resolve and determination.
As France awaits the outcome of the other semifinal between the USA and Serbia, the anticipation is palpable. The French team competed for the gold medal in the 2020 Tokyo Olympics but fell short. This time, with their home crowd behind them, they are poised to make a historic leap forward and capture a gold medal that has eluded them thus far.
The stage is set for an electrifying gold medal game at the Paris Olympics. Whether facing the USA or Serbia, the French team is prepared to seize this golden opportunity and etch their names in the annals of Olympic history.