The semifinal lineup for the men's basketball tournament at the 2024 Paris Olympics has been set, featuring a mix of perennial powerhouses and rising contenders. France, the United States, Germany, and Serbia have battled through intense quarterfinals to secure their spots, each demonstrating why they deserve to be among the final four.
France Shines Without Gobert
France's path to the semifinals was solidified with a convincing 82-73 victory over Canada. Guerschon Yabusele and Isaia Cordinier were instrumental, combining for a remarkable 42 points. Despite Rudy Gobert spending most of the game on the bench, playing only three minutes, the French team showcased its depth and resilience.
Team USA Dominates Brazil
The United States continues to assert its dominance in international basketball, as evidenced by their decisive win over Brazil in the quarterfinals. Joel Embiid had a standout performance, scoring 14 points and grabbing seven rebounds in just the first half. This victory marks yet another milestone in what has been a commanding Olympic campaign for Team USA, who have beaten Serbia twice in the past two months by an average margin of 26 points.
Germany's Unbeaten Streak
Germany enters the semifinals riding high as the defending FIBA World Cup champions. Their undefeated run in the tournament continued with a dominant performance against Greece. After trailing in the first quarter, Germany outscored Greece 65-42 over the remaining three quarters. Franz Wagner and Dennis Schroder led the charge with 18 and 13 points, respectively, underscoring Germany's balanced offensive attack and solid defensive execution.
Serbia's Remarkable Comeback
Serbia's journey to the semifinals was nothing short of dramatic. Facing Australia, they found themselves trailing by 24 points in the first half. However, a near triple-double performance by Nikola Jokic changed the game’s trajectory. Jokic's stat line was a testament to his all-around skill: 21 points, 14 rebounds, nine assists, four steals, and two blocks. His leadership and clutch play galvanized Serbia to overcome the daunting deficit and secure a place in the next round.
As the semifinals approach, the stage is set for thrilling matchups. Each team brings a unique story and style of play, promising high-stakes battles and unforgettable moments as they vie for a place in the Olympic finals. With individual talents like Embiid and Jokic and strong team dynamics, the upcoming games are sure to captivate basketball fans around the world.