The men's basketball tournament at the 2024 Paris Olympics has delivered its share of thrills, and the stage is now set for an electrifying set of semifinal matchups. France, the United States, Germany, and Serbia have emerged as the formidable finalists after a series of gripping quarterfinal games.
France's Triumph Over Canada
France punched their ticket to the semifinals by overcoming Canada with a convincing 82-73 victory. The dynamic duo of Guerschon Yabusele and Isaia Cordinier was instrumental in this triumph, combining for an impressive total of 42 points. While Yabusele and Cordinier stole the show, France's defensive stalwart Rudy Gobert was notably benched, playing only three minutes in the match. Despite Gobert's limited playing time, the French team showcased its depth and resilience, securing their spot among the final four.
Team USA Dominates Brazil
Team USA continued to assert its dominance on the global stage with a decisive quarterfinal victory over Brazil. Joel Embiid, a key player for the American squad, delivered an outstanding first-half performance, scoring 14 points and grabbing seven rebounds. The United States, which has beaten Serbia twice in the last two months by an average margin of 26 points, seems to be peaking at the right time. Their depth and versatility make them a formidable opponent in the semifinals.
Germany's Unbeaten Run Continues
Germany, the defending FIBA World Cup champions, have been nothing short of spectacular in this tournament. They remain undefeated, showcasing a blend of disciplined defense and potent offense. In their quarterfinal clash with Greece, Germany outscored their opponents 65-42 over the final three quarters. Franz Wagner was a standout performer, contributing 18 points, while Dennis Schroder added 13 points to seal the victory. This impressive run cements Germany's status as a team to watch in the semifinals.
Serbia's Miraculous Comeback
Serbia's journey to the semifinals has been marked by resilience and sheer determination. In their quarterfinal matchup against Australia, Serbia trailed by a daunting 24 points in the first half. However, they mounted an incredible comeback, spearheaded by Nikola Jokic's near triple-double performance. Jokic recorded 21 points, 14 rebounds, nine assists, four steals, and two blocks, leading his team to an improbable victory. Serbia's ability to overcome such a deficit highlights their tenacity and never-say-die attitude.
The stage is now set for the semifinals, where these four powerhouse teams will clash for a shot at Olympic glory. The basketball world will be watching intently as France, the United States, Germany, and Serbia battle it out in what promises to be a thrilling conclusion to the tournament.