Despite significant global progress and the emergence of dazzling talents and promising teams, no one has yet managed to halt Team USA’s dominance. The U.S. has now clinched its fifth consecutive Olympic gold medal after a hard-fought 98-87 win over a determined France on Saturday.
The defining moment of the match came from Stephen Curry, who delivered four clutch three-pointers within a two-minute span in the fourth quarter, quelling a French rally. Curry sealed his first Olympic gold with a remarkable fall-away three over two defenders, a move that silenced the home crowd and showcased his signature shot.
“Before every shot, you think it’s going in,” Curry said. “All I saw was the rim. I didn’t see who was in front of me. I knew it was a late-clock situation, but that one impressed even me.”
Curry, who had scored nine three-pointers in the semifinals, added 24 points in the final, making 8-of-12 from beyond the arc.
“I’ve seen Steph do that before, but it never gets old,” said Team USA coach Steve Kerr. “It’s a global game with many great players, but we still believe we have the best.”
This stellar performance was a turnaround for Curry, who had struggled with a 5-of-20 shooting record from three-point range and averaged just seven points before the semifinals.
“You just stay confident, stay present, and don’t get rattled by the moment,” Curry said. “There’s a lot of faith, living with shots you think you should take.”
While Curry was the hero of the game, LeBron James was named Olympics MVP after contributing 14 points, six rebounds, and ten assists. This gold adds to his impressive collection, which includes four NBA MVPs, four Finals MVPs, three NBA All-Star Game MVPs, and the only In-Season Tournament championship.
James averaged 14.2 points, 6.8 rebounds, and 8.5 assists on 66% shooting throughout the Olympics.
“I’m just enjoying the moment and humbled to still be able to play at such a high level,” James said. “Winning gold is what matters most to me. It’s pretty cool.”
James now has three Olympic golds and four total Olympic medals, tying him with Kevin Durant, who also earned his fourth gold with a notable 15-point performance.
Devin Booker, a quiet yet pivotal player throughout the tournament, added 15 points in the final, securing his second gold medal. Booker’s plus-18 plus/minus for the game and plus-76 over the Olympics highlights his crucial role.
“Devin was incredible. He completely adapted his role from the NBA,” Kerr said. “He was kind of our unsung MVP.”
Anthony Davis also made a significant contribution with 8 points, 10 rebounds, and 4 blocks, earning his second gold medal.
The American team's three-point shooting was a decisive factor, with 18-of-36 from deep, outpacing France’s nine triples on 30 attempts.
Victor Wembanyama, a rising star who represents a potential future challenge to American dominance, described the game as the “chance of a lifetime” and viewed it as “first or failure” for Les Bleus. Wembanyama’s standout performance included 26 points and seven rebounds, making a strong impression despite the loss.
“It’s a learning experience,” Wembanyama said. “I’m focused on improving and preparing for future challenges.”
France, which has earned silver in the last two Olympics, played valiantly but couldn’t overcome Team USA’s prowess. Despite forcing 17 turnovers and putting up a strong fight, France fell short.
“It’s disappointing because we believed we could win,” said French coach Vincent Collet. “But we have to acknowledge that they were better. They’re still the best.”
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