Two years ago, after he had won his fourth NBA title, Stephen Curry was considering. Gold at the Olympics was all that was needed for him to triumph. He also ensured the medal would be his in the decisive time.
Stephen Curry hit four 3-pointers in the final 2:43, including one that clinched the victory with 1:19 left. It put the United States up 93-84, and he skipped down the floor, yelling and shaking his jersey to show everyone the "USA" across the front. If that wasn't enough, he added the "go to sleep" motion with around 30 seconds left, placing his hands on the side of his face.
Kevin Durant, the first four-time men's gold champion in Olympic basketball history, and Devin Booker each scored 15 points for the Americans. LeBron James, wearing glittering gold sneakers that needed no explanation, scored 14 points for the United States, winning his fourth and third Olympic gold medals.
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Unique and Epic Celebration from Steph Curry. USA vs France Basketball. USA won gold #Basketball #USABWNT pic.twitter.com/z4eJeJ68N9
— The Specifications (@TheSpecificati1) August 10, 2024
French fans are booing Joel Embiid, while the USA team is having a great time 👀
— Global Sports News (@xForSports) August 10, 2024
Embiid got a French passport and played for the USA 😅#Paris2024 | #OlympicGames | #USABMNTpic.twitter.com/E1coxdt9yg
Americans waved flags in joy following the gold medal match
The French were forced to witness, for the second time in as many Olympics, as Americans waved flags in joy following the gold medal match. Three years ago in Tokyo, the French team fell 87-82 to the United States, and this time it came down to the last few minutes. That was before Curry took over. With 26 points in his maiden Olympic final, Victor Wembanyama of France was outstanding. He covered his face with a towel as the Americans applauded. For the hosts, Guerschon Yabusele scored 20 points.
With 14 points in the third, the United States appeared ready to take the lead. However, the offense suddenly went cold, as the hosts responded on a 12-4 run to cut the advantage to 65-59 with 3:05 remaining in the quarter when Evan Fournier made a 3-pointer.