France Shines Against Canada to Secure Semifinal Spot
France has clinched its place in the semifinals of the men’s basketball tournament at the 2024 Paris Olympics following a compelling 82-73 victory over Canada. The French team’s standout performance saw Guerschon Yabusele and Isaia Cordinier combine for a striking 42 points, showcasing their offensive prowess and contributing significantly to the team’s success.
In a surprising turn of events, star center Rudy Gobert spent almost the entire game on the bench, playing only three minutes. Despite his limited playtime, France managed to secure their victory, highlighting the depth and versatility of their squad.
Team USA Dominates Brazil with Decisive Win
Team USA continued to demonstrate their might on the court, securing a dominant win over Brazil in their quarterfinal match. Joel Embiid was instrumental in the first half, scoring 14 points and securing seven rebounds, setting the tone for the game early on.
Historically, the United States has had a favorable record against Serbia, having defeated them twice in the past two months by an average margin of 26 points. This record adds an interesting layer of anticipation as both teams prepare for their potential face-off in the semis.
Germany’s Unbeaten Run Continues
Germany remains a formidable force in the tournament, maintaining an unbeaten record. As the defending FIBA World Cup champions, they have consistently showcased their dominance on the court. In their quarterfinal against Greece, they outscored their opponents 65-42 over the final three quarters, cementing their spot in the semifinals.
Players Franz Wagner and Dennis Schroder were pivotal in this victory, contributing 18 and 13 points respectively. Germany’s impeccable performance so far solidifies their position as a top contender in this year’s Olympics.
Serbia's Resilient Comeback Against Australia
Serbia demonstrated remarkable resilience in their quarterfinal match against Australia. Trailing by 24 points in the first half, they staged a dramatic comeback. Nikola Jokic spearheaded this effort with an almost triple-double, scoring 21 points, grabbing 14 rebounds, delivering nine assists, and adding four steals and two blocks to his impressive stat line. His all-around performance was crucial in turning the tide for Serbia and securing their place in the semifinals.
With these four heavyweight teams—France, the United States, Germany, and Serbia—advancing to the semifinals, basketball enthusiasts around the globe can expect thrilling matchups and high-stakes action as the competition heats up at the 2024 Paris Olympics. The anticipation builds as each team vies for the coveted Olympic gold, determined to etch their names into the annals of basketball history.