France’s men’s basketball team has clinched their spot in the gold-medal game at the 2024 Paris Olympics with a hard-fought 73-69 win over Germany. This marks the first time since the 1996 Atlanta Olympics that the host nation will advance to the gold-medal showdown in men’s basketball, underscoring a historic opportunity for the team on home soil.
The path to this significant achievement was anything but straightforward for France. The group stage was a roller-coaster ride, featuring a narrow escape against Japan and a notable defeat to Germany. However, France displayed resilience and tenacity, bouncing back to defeat Canada in the quarterfinals, and avenge their earlier loss to Germany in the semifinals.
A Tumultuous Road to the Final
The semifinal against Germany was no walk in the park. France faced an early scare when Germany closed a 13-point deficit late in the game. Victor Wembanyama, a rising star, played a pivotal role despite an off night shooting. He finished the game with 11 points, seven rebounds, four assists, and three blocks, but his impact was felt far beyond the stat sheet.
Wembanyama’s presence on the defensive end was crucial. He blocked a vital 3-point attempt by Germany's Dennis Schroder in the fourth quarter, followed by another block on Schroder during a drive to the rim. These defensive stops were instrumental in maintaining France’s slim lead. Reflecting on the victory’s significance, Wembanyama said, “The fans made it hard for me not to cry.”
Key Contributions and Tactical Moves
French head coach Vincent Collet made some strategic decisions that paid off handsomely. Notably, Collet opted to sit Rudy Gobert, who played only five minutes against Germany and three minutes against Canada. Instead, Mathias Lessort was called upon to play significant minutes off the bench, and he delivered under pressure.
Guerschon Yabusele emerged as the team’s top scorer with 17 points, adding seven rebounds and two assists to his tally. Isaia Cordinier also stepped up, contributing 16 points, seven rebounds, two assists, and two steals. Their performances highlighted the depth and versatility of the French squad.
A Chance to Make History
Pointing to the historical implications of their run, Wembanyama remarked, “It’s a chance to write history.” France has competed for the gold medal before, most recently at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, but they have never secured the top prize in men's basketball at the Olympics.
As they await the winner of the USA-Serbia semifinal to determine their opponent in the gold-medal game, the French team and their fans are brimming with anticipation. The prospect of winning their first-ever gold medal in men’s basketball on home soil adds an extra layer of excitement and motivation.
France’s progress to the final not only exemplifies their skill and determination but also the emotional connection they have with their supporters. The journey has been fraught with challenges, yet the team has navigated these obstacles with poise and collective resolve.
The French men's basketball team is now on the verge of what could be the most significant achievement in their sporting history. With the Paris Olympics providing the perfect backdrop, they are poised to potentially carve their names into the annals of French sports lore.