The men's basketball tournament at the 2024 Paris Olympics has reached a critical juncture, with France, the United States, Germany, and Serbia emerging as the four semifinalists. These teams have demonstrated exceptional skill and determination to secure their spots and now stand on the brink of Olympic glory.
France Dispatches Canada
France booked their place in the semifinals with a convincing 82-73 victory over Canada. Guerschon Yabusele and Isaia Cordinier were instrumental in this win, combining for an impressive total of 42 points. Despite a surprising decision to bench Rudy Gobert, who played only three minutes, the French side showcased their depth and resilience.
Team USA's Dominance
Team USA continued their dominant run, securing a decisive win against Brazil in their quarterfinal match. Joel Embiid was a standout performer, contributing 14 points and seven rebounds in just the first half. The American team has shown their superiority throughout the tournament, having previously beaten Serbia twice in recent months by an average margin of 26 points. Such performances highlight the United States' consistent competitive edge on the international stage.
Germany's Unstoppable Run
Germany, the defending FIBA World Cup champions, remain undefeated in the tournament. Their quarterfinal match against Greece was a testament to their prowess, as they outscored their opponents 65-42 over the final three quarters. Franz Wagner led the charge with an 18-point performance, while Dennis Schroder added 13 points. This relentless display underscores Germany's determination to maintain their championship status.
Serbia's Comeback Against Australia
Serbia displayed remarkable tenacity in their quarterfinal clash with Australia. Trailing by 24 points in the first half, they mounted an extraordinary comeback, largely thanks to Nikola Jokic's near triple-double performance. Jokic was instrumental, scoring 21 points, securing 14 rebounds, dishing out nine assists, and adding four steals and two blocks. His leadership and versatility were crucial in turning the tide of the match in Serbia's favor.
As the tournament progresses, the upcoming semifinal matchups promise to be thrilling encounters filled with high-stakes drama and top-tier basketball. Each of these four teams has proven their mettle, and fans worldwide eagerly anticipate the next chapter in this Olympic saga.