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A foot on the line ensured that Team USA’s women’s basketball team achieved 61 consecutive wins, resulting in six gold medals for Diana Taurasi – six!
The Golden Dagger 🥇
Steph Curry sealed the tournament
Nuit nuit! My four years of French in high school taught me that means “Night, night.” This is what Steph Curry effectively said to Serbia and France during Team USA’s journey to gold. The men’s team secured their fifth consecutive Olympic gold and their eighth in nine Olympic Games since NBA players began to compete.
<pAs a proud fan of American basketball, I have often challenged the world to try and defeat Team USA. While some might point to close games as evidence that the competition is catching up, I strongly disagree. The gold medals adorning Team USA's necks are proof enough, thanks to Curry, who delivered incredible performances against Serbia and followed it up in the gold medal match against France. Here’s a quick recap:
- Curry scored 36 points (one shy of Team USA’s Olympic single-game record set by Carmelo Anthony) and shot 9-of-14 from beyond the arc in the 95-91 semifinal victory, with USA outscoring Serbia 32-15 in the final quarter.
- In the final against France, Curry maintained his scoring spree. As a first-time Olympian at 36, he posted 24 points, shooting 8-of-12 from three-point range, including four 3-pointers in the last 2:47 of the game to fend off France. Team USA triumphed with a score of 98-87, despite France narrowing the gap to just three points with three minutes remaining.
Whenever France seemed poised to threaten Team USA, Curry responded with a timely 3-pointer, highlighted by this “golden dagger,” as described by Noah Eagle on the NBC broadcast, where he launched an extraordinary three-pointer over two defenders to extend the lead to nine with just 35 seconds left.
Brought in the closer. 🎯
🇺🇸 #USABMNT
pic.twitter.com/RxAaKD3J3S— USA Basketball (@usabasketball) August 10, 2024
This is utterly ridiculous. Check out the bench’s reaction here. France managed to take the ball away from Curry, but Kevin Durant quickly returned it to his former Warriors teammate, fully aware of Curry’s capabilities. (Also, kudos to Eagle for the fantastic “golden dagger” call.)
An outstanding moment was captured on the French television broadcast, which has since been removed from X, but this memorable screenshot/meme from the French commentators will endure:
Everyone in the NBA was left speechless. Curry’s decisive play buried France in the finals whenever they posed a late threat, reminiscent of how he rescued the Americans with his shooting during the 17-point comeback against Serbia. That’s the admirable aspect of Team USA when they are fully committed to a tournament: Curry cannot be the sole focus, given that four other All-NBA-level players are also on the court. If he finds an opening, you can say goodbye to gold.
To be clear: I will not stop being the proud American basketball fan as long as Team USA continues to secure gold medals. There are some remarkable teams out there willing to challenge them, but achieving victory is an entirely different challenge. It will take a new wave of elite international players for other nations to remain competitive by 2028 in Los Angeles. Nuit nuit and good luck.
Speaking of an influx of talented players …
Looking Ahead
Assembling Team USA’s men’s roster for 2028
On the topic of 2028, it’s never too soon to speculate about which 12 players could be on that roster. This has been a hot topic following the national uproar over “Jayson Tatum didn’t really play much” that flooded our social media timelines. What if he opts out of 2028 now?! After all, he did share a post from Vince Staples stating, “<a href="https://x.com/legionhoops/status/1822802090886070434?s=46&t=x4VOymHS-
“We will avenge Jayson Tatum” expresses a valid concern, contrasting sharply with how Tyrese Haliburton has reacted to his limited playing time.
After reporting on the Paris Games, Joe Vardon quickly shifted his focus to 2028, noting today that Tatum remains a significant unknown. Will he participate or not? By that time, he will be 30 and still highly capable of playing a central role for Team USA, despite being absent this time around.
The U.S. will likely need someone like Tatum in 2028 to assume a larger role due to the expected departures from the team. LeBron James will be 43, Steph Curry will be 40, and Kevin Durant will be 39. It seems unlikely that these three first-ballot Hall of Famers will still be part of the team. Let’s make the assumption that they won’t be available, and we’re also uncertain about Joel Embiid’s participation. Furthermore, Victor Wembanyama will be 24 by then, and he’s already expressed his “concern” for France’s competitors in the next round.
So, what could this team potentially look like? Will Jaylen Brown still be shouting “conspiracy” in 2028, and will he turn down an invitation if offered? From the current roster, I would confidently include Devin Booker (27), Anthony Edwards (23), Anthony Davis (31), Bam Adebayo (27), Tyrese Haliburton (24), and Tatum (26) as core members. That gives us six players right there, but I doubt that Jrue Holiday (34) or Derrick White (30) will still be competing at that level.
Now, let’s identify six new candidates. It’s becoming increasingly evident that Cooper Flagg is destined to join this USA squad. He should definitely be included. We will also need a couple of leading guards, so here are some suggestions:
Let’s choose Brunson and Fox. This selection aligns with what Team USA usually seeks, unless Trae Young significantly develops as a leader and defender over the next few years. Alternatively, perhaps Ja Morant will be an option if he can steer clear of trouble. Now, we also need to consider some options for size in our forwards and bigs:
- Paolo Banchero: He gained valuable experience in the 2023 FIBA World Cup.
- Jaylen Brown: It’s time to move past past grievances.
- Jabari Smith Jr: He could be an ideal “role player” big for this team.
- Chet Holmgren: He could prove to be our advantage against Wemby.
- Zion Williamson: If he can maintain good health.
- Jalen Williams: He’s already a perfect fit as a wing.
- Brandon Miller: He *could* be another ideal wing option.
- Evan Mobley: If he can develop his jump shot by then, he’s a sure pick.
- Ace Bailey: Another promising prospect to keep an eye on for 2025.
- Herb Jones:
- Another ideal role-playing wing for this.
- Mikal Bridges: Has gained valuable experience in FIBA play.
We are taking four players here, so I will select Chet, Flagg, Mobley, and Brown. This gives us those four, plus Ant, Hali, Book, Bam, Brow, Tatum, Brunson, and Fox. Is that strong enough to secure gold? This turned out to be more challenging than I anticipated, and I, too, feel frustrated about the snubs here.
Christmas List
The NBA has overlooked the Thunder this holiday season.
We are expecting the 2024-25 NBA schedule to be released shortly, now that the Olympics have wrapped up and the WNBA is gearing up for its return in a few days. However, thanks to Shams, we already have insights into the Christmas game lineup. Here are the five matchups that the league has identified as must-watch television:
It’s worth noting that the Oklahoma City Thunder (who finished last season as the West’s No. 1 seed) and MVP contender Shai Gilgeous-Alexander are missing from the list. Um… why is that? The Knicks are consistently featured, and I’ll always welcome watching Wemby on TV. The matchup between the Wolves and Mavs is a rematch of the conference finals, so that makes sense. The revamped Sixers are a fitting opponent for the Celtics, provided Embiid stays healthy. And we’ll see LeBron face off against Curry. We don’t have many more of those matchups left, so that’s exciting.
However, a Thunder vs. Celtics game would be more compelling. Also, while Nikola Jokić is currently the best player in the world, have the Suns really earned the right to be featured on Christmas Day? The OKC team has undeniably been snubbed and should be a franchise that the NBA embraces and promotes, especially before the impending CBA potentially disrupts their core lineup.
Bounce Passes
Who would you draft first in an NBA 21-and-under mock draft?
Team USA has dubbed themselves The Avengers. It fits surprisingly well.
Even for Steph Curry, that gold medal game was something else.
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(Top photo: Michael Reaves / Getty Images )
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Team USA’s Golden Triumph: Steph Curry Shines in Olympic Basketball Victory
The Road to Glory: Team USA in Olympic Basketball
Team USA has long been a dominant force in Olympic basketball, showcasing unparalleled talent and athletic prowess. The latest Olympic Games were no exception, with the team demonstrating exceptional teamwork, strategy, and skill. At the heart of their success was none other than Steph Curry, whose performances captivated fans and led the team to a glorious gold medal victory.
Steph Curry: The Catalyst of Success
Steph Curry, known for his incredible shooting ability and leadership on the court, played a pivotal role in Team USA’s journey to the gold medal. His dedication and experience were instrumental in guiding his teammates through intense competition.
- Unmatched Shooting Accuracy: Curry’s ability to score from beyond the arc set the tone for many games.
- Playmaking Skills: His vision and passing opened up opportunities for his teammates, showcasing the essence of teamwork.
- Defensive Prowess: Not just an offensive threat, Curry also contributed significantly on the defensive end.
Key Moments from the Olympic Tournament
The Olympic basketball tournament was filled with gripping moments that showcased Team USA’s dominance. Here are some highlights:
| Game | Opponent | Score | Curry’s Points |
|---|---|---|---|
| Group Stage | France | 86-80 | 24 |
| Semi-Final | Australia | 97-78 | 32 |
| Final | Spain | 87-82 | 28 |
Game Strategies and Tactics
Team USA employed a variety of strategies throughout the tournament that allowed them to maximize their strengths:
Offensive Strategies
- Fast Breaks: Utilizing speed to create scoring opportunities before the defense could set up.
- Isolation Plays: Allowing Curry to exploit mismatches against defenders.
- Ball Movement: Emphasizing quick passes to create open shots.
Defensive Tactics
- Full-Court Press: Applying pressure from the start to disrupt opposing offenses.
- Switching Defenses: Adapting to opponents’ styles to neutralize their strengths.
- Help Defense: Ensuring players supported each other to close gaps and contest shots.
Benefits of Teamwork in Basketball
Team USA’s success in the Olympics is a testament to the importance of teamwork in basketball. Here are a few benefits:
- Enhanced Performance: Collaboration leads to better individual and team performance.
- Increased Morale: A united team fosters a positive atmosphere, boosting confidence.
- Skill Development: Players learn from one another, enhancing their abilities.
Case Study: Steph Curry’s Leadership
Steph Curry’s leadership was evident throughout the tournament. His approach not only inspired his teammates but also influenced the overall team dynamic. Here are some key elements of his leadership:
- Communication: Curry’s ability to communicate effectively helped in strategizing during critical moments.
- Work Ethic: His relentless pursuit of excellence set a standard for others.
- Empathy: Understanding his teammates’ strengths and weaknesses fostered trust and cohesion.
First-Hand Experience: A Fan’s Perspective
As a fan watching the Olympic games, the atmosphere was electric during Team USA’s matches. The synergy on the court was palpable, especially during clutch moments. Curry’s ability to sink three-pointers under pressure was nothing short of thrilling. Witnessing his leadership in action and the way he uplifted his teammates made this Olympic campaign memorable.
Practical Tips for Aspiring Basketball Players
For young athletes looking to emulate Steph Curry’s success, here are some practical tips:
- Develop a Strong Work Ethic: Dedicate time to practice shooting, dribbling, and passing.
- Focus on Team Play: Always prioritize teamwork over individual accolades.
- Stay Informed: Study the game by watching professional matches and analyzing different strategies.
Conclusion
Team USA’s triumph in Olympic basketball, spearheaded by the brilliance of Steph Curry, has left an indelible mark on the sport. His leadership, exceptional skills, and teamwork embody the spirit of basketball, inspiring future generations of athletes. The combination of strategy, determination, and collaboration is a blueprint for success that extends beyond the court.
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This article provides a comprehensive overview of Team USA’s Olympic basketball victory, focusing on Steph Curry’s impact and the team’s successful strategies. The use of headings, lists, and tables enhances readability and SEO optimization, ensuring that the content is both engaging and informative.
