France Secures Spot in Paris Olympics Gold-Medal Game with Victory Over Germany
In a thrilling display of resilience and determination, France’s men’s basketball team triumphed over Germany with a 73-69 victory in the semifinals, securing their place in the gold-medal game of the 2024 Paris Olympics. This marks the first time since the 1996 Atlanta Olympics that the host nation will be battling for the top podium spot in men’s basketball.
The journey to this point has been anything but smooth for France. The team experienced a turbulent group stage, narrowly escaping an early exit with a close shave against Japan and suffering a significant defeat to Germany earlier in the tournament. However, France managed to turn the tables in the semifinals, avenging their previous loss to Germany and demonstrating remarkable resolve.
The pathway to the semifinals saw France defeating Canada in the quarterfinals, setting the stage for a crucial rematch against Germany. Despite a formidable challenge from their opponents, who closed a 13-point deficit late in the game, the French team held their nerve to clinch the win.
Victor Wembanyama played a pivotal role in France’s victory, finishing with 11 points, seven rebounds, four assists, and three blocks. Although his shooting was off the mark, hitting only 4 of 17 from the floor, Wembanyama made significant contributions on the defensive end. His crucial block of a three-point attempt by Germany’s Dennis Schroder in the fourth quarter and another block on Schroder’s drive towards the rim were game-defining moments. Reflecting on the significance of the victory, Wembanyama said, “The fans made it hard for me not to cry.”
Following Wembanyama’s defensive stand, Frank Ntilikina made the most of the momentum by scoring a pivotal three-pointer, further cementing France’s lead. The match saw significant contributions from other players as well. Guerschon Yabusele led the team with 17 points, seven rebounds, and two assists, while Isaia Cordinier added 16 points, seven rebounds, two assists, and two steals. Mathias Lessort also played significant minutes off the bench.
Head coach Vincent Collet made some strategic decisions that paid off handsomely. Opting to sit Rudy Gobert, who played only five minutes against Germany and three minutes against Canada, Collet placed his trust in other players to step up, and they did just that. France's team effort and tactical adjustments have been crucial in their journey to the gold-medal game.
As they await the winner of the USA-Serbia semifinal match to determine their opponent, France is keenly aware of the historic opportunity at hand. The team competed for the gold medal in the 2020 Tokyo Olympics but fell short of claiming the top spot. France has never won a gold medal in men’s basketball in Olympics history, making this upcoming game a chance to etch their names in the annals of French sports. With a clear vision and strong resolve, Wembanyama remarked, “It’s a chance to write history.”
Germany's effort should not go unnoticed; they scored 28 points in the paint and fought back tremendously, putting France under significant pressure. However, the French team’s ability to close out the game and their unwavering focus on both ends of the court made all the difference.
As the anticipation builds for the gold-medal game, fans and analysts alike will be closely watching France's next chapter in their Olympic journey. Whether they face the powerhouse USA team or a resolute Serbian squad, France will be looking to harness the energy of their home crowd and finish what has been a riveting and hard-fought campaign on the highest note possible.