The 2024 Paris Olympics men's basketball tournament has seen a thrilling journey so far, narrowing the competition down to four formidable semifinalists: France, the United States, Germany, and Serbia. Each team has demonstrated remarkable skill and determination, securing their places in the penultimate round with significant victories and standout performances.
France's Road to the Semifinals
France clinched their spot in the semifinals with a hard-fought victory over Canada, ending the match with a score of 82-73. Key contributions came from Guerschon Yabusele and Isaia Cordinier, who together amassed an impressive total of 42 points, showcasing their offensive prowess. Despite their success, the game had its surprises, including the minimal playtime for Rudy Gobert, a critical team member who was benched and only saw three minutes of action.
Team USA's Domination
Team USA displayed their dominance once again, securing a decisive victory over Brazil in their quarterfinal match. Joel Embiid shone during the first half, scoring 14 points and grabbing seven rebounds, setting a strong foundation for the team’s success. Historically, the United States has maintained superiority over Serbia, defeating them twice in the past two months with an average winning margin of 26 points. This record positions them as a formidable contender in the semifinals.
Germany's Unbeaten Streak
Germany entered the tournament as the defending FIBA World Cup champions and have remained undefeated, providing a solid testament to their consistency and strength. Their quarterfinal match against Greece underscored their dominance, where they outscored their opponents 65-42 over the last three quarters. Franz Wagner and Dennis Schroder were pivotal in this victory, contributing 18 and 13 points respectively. Germany’s unbeaten run and cohesive team play make them a formidable force heading into the semifinals.
Serbia's Resilient Comeback
Serbia’s path to the semifinals was marked by a dramatic comeback against Australia. Trailing by 24 points in the first half, Serbia managed to turn the game around, showcasing their tenacity and skill. Nikola Jokic delivered a near triple-double performance, recording 21 points, 14 rebounds, nine assists, four steals, and two blocks. His all-around contribution was instrumental in lifting Serbia from a precarious position to a victorious one, illustrating why he is considered one of the best in the game.
As the semifinals approach, the stage is set for some of the most exciting basketball of the Olympics. Each team brings its unique strengths and standout players, promising a series of unforgettable games. France, riding high on key performances and strategic adjustments; the United States, with their historical dominance and star power; Germany, with their unblemished record and team synergy; and Serbia, carrying the momentum of a stunning comeback spearheaded by Jokic, are all poised for thrilling matchups. The basketball world eagerly awaits to see which of these elite teams will advance to the finals and compete for Olympic glory.