France, the United States, Germany, and Serbia have claimed their spots in the semifinals of the men's basketball tournament at the 2024 Paris Olympics, setting the stage for what promises to be thrilling matchups. Each team showcased its strengths and unique style, ensuring that the upcoming games will be a spectacle for basketball aficionados worldwide.
France Overcomes Canada
France triumphed over Canada with a final score of 82-73, demonstrating a cohesive team effort. Guerschon Yabusele and Isaia Cordinier were instrumental in the victory, combining for a remarkable total of 42 points. Despite the significant effort from these two players, Rudy Gobert's minimal involvement was notable. Gobert, a key defensive presence, was benched and played only three minutes in this critical game.
Team USA Dominates Brazil
The United States continued its dominance on the international stage with a decisive victory over Brazil in the quarterfinals. Joel Embiid, a standout performer, scored 14 points and grabbed seven rebounds in the first half alone, setting the tone for the rest of the game. Team USA's performance was an affirmation of their strength, especially given their recent encounters with Serbia, whom they have beaten twice in the past two months by an average margin of 26 points.
Germany's Unbeaten Streak
Germany, the defending FIBA World Cup champions, secured their place in the semifinals by overpowering Greece. The German team outscored Greece 65-42 over the final three quarters, showcasing their relentless offense and staunch defense. Franz Wagner and Dennis Schroder played pivotal roles, scoring 18 and 13 points, respectively. Germany remains undefeated in the tournament, a testament to their formidable form and tactical prowess.
Serbia's Stunning Comeback
Serbia's journey to the semifinals was marked by a dramatic comeback against Australia. Trailing by 24 points in the first half, Serbia's resilience was on full display. Nikola Jokic delivered a near triple-double performance with 21 points, 14 rebounds, nine assists, four steals, and two blocks, lifting his team to an improbable victory. Jokic's multifaceted game underscored his status as one of the tournament's most valuable players.
The stage is now set for the semifinals, where these powerhouse teams will clash in what promises to be a high-stakes battle. Each team has demonstrated their ability to perform under pressure and adapt to challenging situations, setting the scene for an unforgettable conclusion to the 2024 Paris Olympics men's basketball tournament.