France Triumphs Over Germany to Reach 2024 Paris Olympics Men's Basketball Final
France’s men’s basketball team has secured a place in the gold-medal game at the 2024 Paris Olympics, thanks to a tense 73-69 victory over Germany in the semifinals. This victory marks the first time since the 1996 Atlanta Olympics that the host nation will compete for the top spot in men’s basketball.
Despite their turbulent journey through the group stage, which included a narrow escape against Japan and a significant loss to Germany, France has shown remarkable resilience and determination. They clinched their spot in the semifinal after defeating Canada and subsequently avenged their earlier defeat to Germany with a stellar performance.
In a high-intensity game, Germany fought back late, closing a 13-point deficit, creating a nail-biting finish. France, however, maintained their composure and secured their place in the final.
Key Performances
Victor Wembanyama, despite hitting just 4 of 17 from the floor, had a significant impact on the game. He finished with 11 points, seven rebounds, four assists, and three blocks. His defensive prowess was particularly notable, as he blocked a crucial 3-point attempt by Germany’s Dennis Schroder in the fourth quarter. He followed this with another block on Schroder, who was driving towards the rim, demonstrating his defensive skills under pressure.
Reflecting on the win, an emotional Wembanyama said, “The fans made it hard for me not to cry.” He emphasized the team’s historic opportunity, saying, “It’s a chance to write history.”
Frank Ntilikina added a vital three-pointer following Wembanyama’s first defensive stand, further solidifying France’s lead in the dying minutes of the game.
Guerschon Yabusele led the scoring with 17 points, seven rebounds, and two assists, while Isaia Cordinier was another key contributor, adding 16 points, seven rebounds, two assists, and two steals. Their contributions were instrumental in overpowering Germany’s strong interior presence, which saw them score 28 points in the paint.
Coaching Decisions
Head coach Vincent Collet made some strategic decisions that paid off, most notably opting to sit Rudy Gobert, who played only five minutes against Germany and just three minutes in the previous game against Canada. Instead, Mathias Lessort played significant minutes off the bench, providing the team with depth and fresh legs during critical moments.
A Historic Challenge Ahead
With this triumph, France now awaits the winner of the USA-Serbia semifinal match to determine their opponent in the gold-medal game. The excitement in the French camp is palpable, as they prepare to compete for the gold medal, an achievement that has eluded them throughout their Olympic history. France last competed for the gold medal in the 2020 Tokyo Olympics but fell short of the top prize.
The prospect of winning their first-ever gold medal in men’s basketball at home is a motivating factor for the French team. The players and coaching staff are aware of the gravity of the moment and the opportunity to etch their names in history.
The victory over Germany is not just a testament to their skills and strategies but also to their unwavering resolve and focus, qualities that will be essential as they take on their final challenge in the Paris Olympics. The anticipation continues to build as basketball fans worldwide await what promises to be an exhilarating conclusion to the men’s basketball tournament.