PARIS — Stephen Curry fulfilled a long-held aspiration this weekend, leading the United States to a fifth consecutive Olympic gold medal in men’s basketball. After securing his fourth NBA title two years ago, Curry’s only remaining goal was to clinch Olympic gold, and he did just that by scoring 24 points, all from beyond the arc, during the thrilling 98-87 victory over France in the gold medal match at the Paris Games.
Curry, known for his incredible shooting ability, was instrumental in the team’s success, particularly in the closing moments of the game. His four 3-pointers in the final 2:43, including a decisive shot that extended the lead to 93-84, showcased his exceptional talent on the world stage. Celebrating with a dramatic flair, he expressed his delight at helping secure another gold for the U.S.
Reflecting on the experience, Curry stated, “For me to get a gold medal is insane, and I thank God for the opportunity to experience it.” His performance was complemented by Kevin Durant and Devin Booker, who each contributed 15 points, while LeBron James added 14, marking his fourth Olympic medal.
Despite the loss, France’s Victor Wembanyama made headlines with a standout performance, scoring 26 points—the second-most ever against the U.S. in a gold medal game. France coach Vincent Collet acknowledged the disappointment but also recognized the gap in performance between the teams.
The game was tightly contested, with France making a strong push to narrow the U.S. lead. However, Curry’s remarkable shooting ultimately sealed the victory when it mattered most. U.S. coach Steve Kerr praised Curry’s resilience and ability to thrive under pressure, commenting on the psychological challenges that come with representing the United States in international competition.
With this victory, the U.S. men’s basketball team further solidified its dominance on the Olympic stage, boasting an impressive 17 gold medals out of 20 participations. As the tournament concludes, players like Curry and Durant have etched their names into Olympic history while inspiring a new generation of basketball talent. The U.S. continues to be a powerhouse in international basketball, setting the stage for future competitions.
