France’s men’s basketball team has achieved a monumental milestone by advancing to the gold medal game at the 2024 Paris Olympics with a thrilling 73-69 victory over Germany in the semifinals. This marks the first time since the 1996 Atlanta Olympics that the host nation will compete for the gold in men’s basketball, a testament to the team’s resilience and determination.
The journey to the finals was far from smooth for the French squad, who endured a turbulent group stage. A narrow escape against Japan and a significant loss to Germany in an earlier matchup had raised many doubts. However, the team rallied to defeat Canada in the quarterfinals, setting the stage to avenge their previous loss to Germany in the semifinals.
Game Highlights
In the semifinal clash, France faced an early scare as Germany nearly closed a 13-point deficit late in the game. The heroics of rising star Victor Wembanyama played a crucial role in France's victory. Despite struggling with his shooting, hitting only 4 of 17 from the floor, Wembanyama made significant contributions with 11 points, seven rebounds, four assists, and three blocks. His defensive prowess shone through at pivotal moments, including a critical block of a three-point attempt by Germany’s Dennis Schroder in the fourth quarter. Following this defensive stand, Frank Ntilikina drained a vital three-pointer, shifting momentum in France's favor. Wembanyama again thwarted Schroder on a drive towards the rim, ensuring France's lead remained intact.
Behind Wembanyama’s blocks, other players stepped up significantly. Guerschon Yabusele led the team with 17 points, seven rebounds, and two assists, while Isaia Cordinier added 16 points, seven rebounds, two assists, and two steals. Mathias Lessort also provided essential minutes off the bench, contributing to the team’s overall performance.
Coaching Decisions
Head coach Vincent Collet made several strategic decisions that proved crucial. Opting to sit veteran player Rudy Gobert, who played only five minutes against Germany and three minutes against Canada, Collet placed trust in his bench players, particularly Lessort. This decision paid off, as Lessort's fresh legs and energy helped France maintain their defensive intensity and competitiveness throughout the game.
Reflections and Future Prospects
After the game, Wembanyama reflected on the significance of the victory, sharing, “The fans made it hard for me not to cry.” His emotional response underscores the weight of the moment for the young star and the entire French team. He added, “It’s a chance to write history,” highlighting the team’s resolve and focus as they prepare for the final showdown.
France now awaits the winner of the USA-Serbia semifinal match to determine their opponent in the gold-medal game. This will be France’s second consecutive attempt at Olympic gold, having competed for the top prize in the 2020 Tokyo Olympics. Despite never having won a gold medal in men’s basketball in Olympic history, this team's tenacity and fighting spirit could very well change that record on home soil.