The color and the noise at the men's basketball at Paris 2024 has been incredible and the quickly anticipated basketball competition has delivered as well. We expected much, we've been given it and there's more to come because it's the gold medal game between France and the United States. It's the dream final, the host nation France against the unbeaten, the irrepressible United States of America in the gold medal game. That's how they got to the final. France defeating Canada perhaps an upset and then beating the team that beat them Germany.
United States in a difficult game overcoming Serbia to make it here. We've got a special coup de baton for the gold medal game. A legend of French basketball Tony Parker. Four-time NBA champion Tony Parker, the legend of French basketball with the coup de bataille.
For the United States All-Star lineup, we've got MVPs in this side. Can anyone stop that? undefeated at 5-0 averaging 107 points per game, their offense has been dominant, first in field goal percentage at 56% first in three point percentage at 45% They've moved the ball so well.
28 assists per game. In their bench, 48 points per game. But only 15 in that tough game versus Serbia.
Against Serbia, Stephen Curry came to play. 36 points, 9 threes. Joel Allenby, 19 points.
And LeBron James with the triple-double. 16 points, 12 rebounds, 10 assists. They have been fun to watch. And they have proved their worthiness because they came back from 17 points down in that semifinal against Serbia.
And they came back in that third quarter. They were down after three quarters by 13 points. Massive fourth quarter.
To bring him here. Joel Embiid. He's been getting the hostile atmosphere.
Because there was some discussion. He might decide to play for France. He's decided to play for the United States. But he's enjoyed every minute of Paris 2024. Van Manderbilt.
Van Manderbilt playing an important role off the bench. For the United States. Anthony Davis.
Has been. Was their leading rebounder until the last game. With LeBron James.
Overplayed. overtook him and Devin Booker as well. An important shooter in this game. Three points will be key. Steve Kerr, he's seen it all before.
Four NBA championships. Can he win his first gold as an international coach? For France, like the Eiffel Tower, this is built on solid foundations. France have been really lifted by the crowd here at the Bercy. It's been rocking ever since they've gotten here.
They're 4-1 in the competition. They've done it with defense. Hold the teams to 41% shooting. They're only giving up 77 points per game.
And yes, they block shots. First in the competition at six blocks per game. Head coach, Vincent Collet. the knockout stages made a couple of changes he inserted and say a Courtney a Gershon he ever Selly into the starting lineup and that's work wonders yeah but Selly's average 20 points per game and Courtney a 18 a game six for 10 from three-point range A team that has ridden the wave of home support.
It is an incredible atmosphere. It was in Lille. It continues to be so in Paris.
And France have lived on. this superb support. Rudy Gobert hasn't seen as much game time in the last few games. We'll see what happens to him and he's opened the space up for Victor Wemba Nyama who has been scoring on average a double-double. Mathieu Strasel scored the miracle shot against Japan.
Who knows where France would be if that shot didn't go in. Koulibaly, the young player, making up this team. They are talented. They are difficult to beat.
Strong defense. I'm Vincent Collet as the coach been there since 2009 led his team to two Olympic Games finals We now have the anthems of France and first the United States And now if you're able please be upstanding for the national anthem of the United States of America And now the national anthem of France describe this game for France it's a dream it's been a dream for these French fans to get here and face the number one team in the world. United States have won every Olympic game since 2008 but they have been beaten once since 2008 and that was by France.
LeBron James in his four Olympic Games looking to win a third gold. The officials keeping an eye on this one. From Spain, Antonio Conde.
Of Panama, Julio Anaya. And from Poland, Wojciech Liszka. Your referees for today's game are from Spain, Antonio Conde. From Panama... That's the starting lineup for the United States.
Kevin Durant in from the start. Curry, James, Durant, Embiid, Booker. Wow.
Durant right off the bat. No messing around. They wanted to get going early.
He was key when these two teams met in Tokyo at Tokyo 2020 but France still no Rudy Gobert in that starting lineup. Wouldn't want to change what has worked so far in Paris. You have Vasselle, Cordonier, they've really lifted this crowd. The only key note also in from the start, but these two teams were here and this game at Tokyo 2020. France actually beat them in the group stage.
That was the victory over the United States, but Frank. Victor Weminyama was not there. He is in this team.
There were seven players, Batum was among them, so was Yabusole in that game. They have experience against this team. LeBron wasn't there, but there were five Americans in that team.
Kevin Durant was key in that final back at Tokyo 2020. ...hookies. Can this French defense handle the American offense? Oh yeah, their defense has been so solid. Here's the real test though, to play this American team. But French need to do a good job on the offensive end as LeBron with the pre-game ritual that we've seen before.
But France has not really shot the three well. They're going to have to make more threes tonight. When you look back at that Serbia game, Serbia shot the three well and put the scare into the United States.
United States at felt Steph Curry lifted the whole team lifted in that semifinal against Serbia this is for real France have had to lift since the group stage we are set to go in the gold medal game It's France against the United States in the men's basketball gold medal game. Le Bleu are in Blanc and it's the US with the first possession. Durant for three, misses and beats there but Wemba Yama.
gets the rebound. The long arms of Wemby Nyamu. He's guarding Embiid. It'll be interesting to watch that matchup on both ends of the floor.
Nili Kina for Coutinier, who's been so good in the last few games for France. Getting to the basket. Won't go.
Durant fires it into James. He's gone straight to the hoop. Wow! Fast! LeBron, it's strong!
He wants a medal to match those shoes, LeBron James. Wemba Nyama for three. Oh, there's the reply. Wemba didn't hesitate. He's had his struggles from three.
One for his last 14 coming in. Things are moving lightning fast here. Booker with the return three. Oh, what a show.
Assist from LeBron. He's passed it so well in this competition. A nilly keener to the hoop. Batum is there.
Baskets are coming thick and fast. Now Booker at the other end can't keep it in play. France ball, what a start.
It's 5-5. Back and forth. Watch here. LeBron, so fast and so strong.
An extraordinary start. We knew it was going to be explosive. Not sure we knew it was going to be this explosive this early.
Coutinier. He's slowing down a bit now perhaps. Wembynjama, he does that so well.
He's got the arms to do it. Started out outside, away from the hoop, and now takes him down inside. Embiid with a lot of strength against Wembynjama, but not the length.
Wembynjama used that left hand to score. France in front. Here's Embiid. Leaving it for Curry.
Haven't seen him getting his three-point game into gear. And he's lost it there. Yabusole brings it forward. Batum. Wembenyama for three.
Misses. Booker with the rebound. Straight out to Durant.
It's lightning pace in this game. Don't blink. And Durant did not like that hard foul from Nilekina. Taking a page out of Serbia's book. We saw Serbia do that every time they came up in transition.
The tactical foul. Durant didn't like it. Nilekina didn't back down.
Much is on the line. Embiid. No go. Easy for Nilekina. Everyone's able to take a breather now.
When Nilekina goes for three, LeBron with the rebound. He's been the leading rebounder for his side. And Yabusole gets the steal. Going all the way, Yabusule, and LeBron with the block!
Says, get that out of here. Booker, to Durant, for three. Brilliant. And LeBron started it with the block, he stared Yabusule down after that. And Durant is walking around like he's fired up as well.
Stars on display early. The start we've had to this contest. Uemanyama. Nili Kina. Yabusole for three.
Gathered by Durant. Curry brings it forward. Lovely pass into Booker. The United States are starting very well.
Defensive breakdown from France there. Nobody got back to stop Booker. Easy two for him.
Four assists already for the number one team in the world, the reigning gold medalist. Coutinier in for Weminyama, lovely pass, Yabusele! Brings down the house!
What a pass from Weminyama, got it in the post, a quick pass to Yabusele, and he continues to light up this crowd. One point game, Curry for three. Here's Wembanyama. Thought about it, drives instead, oh!
Take that, he says! The hesitation move at the top of the circle! He left the bead, and he went in and threw it down! Both teams are fired!
France ahead by one and Beats lost it. Out of bounds off Wemba Nyama last. What a start. A tear.
The block from LeBron. Steered him down after it. And here's Wemby, look at how far he took off from to throw it down.
Curry, out to Booker, now to Rennes, he's already knocked down 1-3. In and out. O'Dinier, averaging 18 points in his last couple of games for France.
Driving now into the path of LeBron though, puts it up for Wemby, who can't get it to go. Great pass from Cordinier, it'll be interesting to see when these teams make subs. Teams spending, expanding a lot of energy so far.
LeBron out the back, and Booker finishes it off. Around the back from James, sensational look, right on time for two. Remember, LeBron James scored a triple-double. In that last game in the semi-final, Nili Kina for three.
And it doesn't drop for Freds, but Batum picks it up. Embiid has turned the ball over a few times, and then Batum gives it straight to Curry. Foul.
First foul of the game. Second, rather. It's been breakneck.
Who can keep up? Here you see the around the back pass. Amazing from James to put it right into the chest off the bounce.
Spectacular. I think that's how we're all feeling. LeBron is focused.
One point game and we've reached the halfway stage of the first quarter. It's gone by in a flash. Two subs in for France, three substitutions.
You can tell the players are expending a lot of energy out there. One sub for the US. That's Davis in for Embiid.
Look at Takari. He goes for three. Off target so far in this one. He exploded into life in the game against Serbia.
Ornette into the path of Gobert. Almost lost it. Out to Batum. Short.
Davis gathers in right into the path of Batum. It's play on here. James gets it out to Booker. Durant.
One on one with Gobert. Foul. just grabbed them good matchup for Durant in a one-on-one and Durant has fire in his eyes so far tonight like a matchup zone here for France not guarding a player guarding an area trying to mix up defenses to confuse this high-powered offense United States possession here with 14 seconds on the shot clock. France now brings the Soar into the game.
He was excellent for. New players have come into the game for France so far. Edwards is going to come on for the U.S. as well as Booker makes way.
Tatum also, who didn't play against Serbia. Didn't play against Serbia, didn't play the first game either, but with Durant starting, it opens up time off the bench for Tatum. Still in the zone, France, on the side out of bounds. It's a rotation in the first quarter. Tatum with his first possession.
Leaves it for LeBron. Davis with the offensive rebound. He's fouled.
Start from Tatum he got right into the paint right away against that zone found LeBron missed the shot he normally would make but Davis has been really aggressive right on the offensive glass. Curry inbounds to Davis leaves it for James now Curry straight away Fournier on him in a flash. LeBron driving, tried to play it in for Tatum. It's going to be United States ball, but there's only 2.8 seconds on the shot clock. Well, they've reset it there.
Set with the kick ball. This zone defense has slowed the United States down a little bit. Taking time to get into the offense. Davis.
Now Edwards, Curry, making space for himself but still not going with the three. Lesort does well to keep his toes in play. Warnier.
And LeBron, this is going to be an easy basket for the United States. Tatum! And you don't want to turn the ball over against the United States.
They're so fast in transition. And Tatum, that has to feel good for him. Sat out last game, like you said.
A drive on the first possession and a dunk on the second. Fournier almost lost the handle. Gathered by Edwards who knocks it away. Fournier is going to recover, but the shot clock is down to five. And they haven't passed.
Centre court here, the United States with great pressure. Fournier lost at sea. James. Lovely pass for Tatum.
Off with that effort. ...with a start from the three-point line for the United States. Batum in for Gobert.
The Stifle Tower's on the board. LeBron fronted Gobert there, but Batum with a great pass over the top and an easy two for Rudy. Edwards.
Mounier now trying to return that defensive pressure. One point lead for the United States and Fournier, he's losing the ball here. Lapses in concentration from Fournier. Edwards for three, punishes that turnover, but it might be called a two here, in fact it is. Another turnover that the United States capitalises on, forces the timeout by France.
Two minutes to play in the first quarter. Timeout called. Take a break.
Decision three points off, okay? Upon review, the referees have made that a three-pointer. It's a four-point lead for the United States.
France will still be encouraged by the way this game has begun. But they've made some errors there that have been punished, of course. Three turnovers for France, five points off turnovers for the United States. France really struggling beyond the arc.
One for seven so far from three. Talked about that before. Have to make that three-point shot if they want to hang with the United States tonight.
The two minutes to play in the first quarter. The United States with a four-point lead in the gold medal game. Wemby.
Into the paint but losing the handle again the turnover Davis holds it securely Edwards lines up the triple. Rebound by Gulli-Ballien. France taking their eye off the ball again they keep it this time Coutinier, Bayama and Gobert on the floor now together Zinog and Jokic cause real trouble for the United States. Here's Gobert trying to cause some trouble.
Leaves it for Koulibaly. And he's on the board. The youngster for France.
Had to help down because Gobert had the size advantage on Tatum. Smart play from Rudy to pass it off. Davis driving against Gobert.
No way through. Yeah, just thinking keep the ball when Manama for three when they picks it up On Tate to tussling with go back that's a tough matchup for Tatum Bear with so much size against them. The question is can we ever have to touch around the basket to score? Easy target to throw it into but sometimes Gobert not really efficient with his post game.
That's why they put, now they put Davis on Gobert, Durant on Wimbinyama. Oh yeah, with the cuts and shoot. Still the three's not going for France despite an early one from Webonyama. Edwards, lovely dribble.
A joy to watch, Anthony Edwards. Now putting up the three and knocks it down. What a play and he's letting Gobert know about it.
He throws Gobert, obviously has the quick disadvantage. Little freeze with the move and the step back. A lot of confidence shown already from Anthony Edwards. Triple from the United States.
France with the one so far. Luginier. Driving against Davis. Pulls back. Now delivers.
And it won't go. Durant. It's come off him. But the buzzer has gone down. The United States are in the lead after the first quarter.
France have battled hard. But it's the U.S. with the advantage after the first quarter. France 15. United States of America 20. Not a bad start defensively for France, held the United States to 20 points on 42% shooting.
Their struggles on offense, 7 for 20 from the field for France, 1 for 9 from the 3 point line with 4 turnover. Superstars all round, Scottie Pippen, Super, Miguel Rapinoe, Pau Gasol, the list goes on and on. The second quarter of the men's basketball gold medal game and we've seen some gold already in this one.
United States with a five-point lead, France well in it. Strasl is on, the man with the miracle shot against Japan. Koulibaly, the 20-year-old, already with a couple of points.
Cordinier is blocked there by Davis. Great defensive possession from the United States. They switched everything. Holliday in for Davis.
Off the board. Block on one end, ran the floor, and finished on the other. France has to take advantage of the switch with Wembynjama. They didn't do that last possession.
Seven points the difference now. Cordinier trying to pass it in. Foot violation. Interesting to see if they can get Wembynjama against a guard.
Watch Davis here. Covers so much ground and he's off to the races. He does a good job of holding off Cordinier.
Good finish over Wembynjama. L'Odynier again, one-on-one with Davis, Yabusele in the paint, Wemby's there! Well, Yabusele had Holiday on him, and that's with the switch, and France went right after and missed it, but Wemby's there with the long arm. Davis. Edwards.
Love jump shot, short, Wemby's just knocked it into the path of Davis, Holiday picks up, he drives to the basket, waits for his moment, and Davis with the dunk! Anthony Davis all over the glass so far, decent drive from Holiday, but Davis cleans it up. Yabusele, into Strasl, now Wembynjama, shock locks down to five, leaves it for Yabusele for three. And that was set up because they had to double Wemby in the post, they got the switch with Wemby, they doubled him and they moved the ball around and got an open look. Holliday with lovely dribble, going one-on-one with Strasl, knocks it back to Durant, Grant's ball.
You see the miss from Holliday, good aggression from Davis, used his body so well before he jumped. Yeah, Bousselet hits the three. All about the matchups. If you're gonna switch with little guards on Wemby, gotta try to get it into him.
That'll open up play for France. Four point game. Strasbourg out. Zekulibaly gets it back. Long three attempt here from Strasl.
Oh, no problem. The miracle man for France. I don't think he called the bank shot, but who cares?
Strasl cuts the lead to one. Tatum. Driving.
Forced to go back. Tried to play it in for Edwards. It gets to him eventually.
Tatum under pressure, gets away from it, won't go with the floater but gets the rebound. Now Durant for three, long. Di Colo is on, Koulibaly to Straszl quickly, gets it back, Bilal Koulibaly!
Just 20 years of age. Poor transition defense from the United States, they're missing the three point shot. France taking advantage with the running game. The Reds are in the lead, United States called timeout.
Amello Anthony is enjoying it, but he won't be enjoying the score at the moment. Jimmy Fallon is here as well. France have been putting on a show. Just to mention that Bilal Koulibaly has been playing less than 10 minutes a game. This is the biggest stage of all.
And he's not feeling any nerves whatsoever. Such an athletic player. Used him at times to guard some of the best ball handlers with that length.
Brandt comes out, the timeout, little pressure here. 2-2-1. Trying to slow down the United States here.
Passive, trying to take time off the shot clock. Seven minutes to go in the half. Book is on, as is LeBron, now Curry. James. He heads ahead with Wemby here.
Now delivers. The shot clock's run down. Holliday was not sure if he knew. And that was a pass to himself by LeBron.
He tried to throw it off the backboard to himself. He wasn't able to finish. But good call by France coming out of the timeout. Confused the United States with the 2-2-1. Back to the 2-3.
There's Di Colo, one of the veterans of this French team. Played in that final in Tokyo 2020. Wemby, he heads ahead with Adebayo, gets it over him but it won't go. James picks up. Defense from Adebayo used his strength to push Wemby away from the basket. LeBron goes for three and off from range the United States in this quarter.
Di Colo, Diabusele out to Coulibaly. Di Colo, maybe he's asking for it but gives it to Diabusele. Top box down the two, the turn and shot. Those teams misfired. Defense from Holiday, he's a guard, but he's so strong.
Driving, and this time he does get it to go off the glass. Really used his body to push off on Wemby so he couldn't get up for the... block great drive 13 fast great points already for the United States back in front up for Wemby in the paint and there is no contest there got matched up with Holiday yeah he's strong but not for that type of length easy bucket for Wemby Nyama Reds edge in front once more.
Booker for three. Does it. And that's how you beat the zone.
You get it to the high post. Right to the far line. And Booker didn't hesitate to knock down a three.
They needed that. That's their first three of the second quarter. One of four, five of 15 so far.
Strazel with the return. Hesitation with the ball bouncing. went to it, looks like someone is holding on to the United States.
That'll be a foul on France. That would have been DiColo just grabbing the arm of Steph Curry. That's why no one went to the ball.
Taken by surprise with that. Under five minutes to play in the first half. It's the US with a two-point lead. And a man for France, they're mixing up the D.
Booker pulls up for the shot. And a bio, gets to it eventually. Leaves it down for Curry.
Curry for three. There it is. And that was an excellent decision by Booker. He could have hoisted that shot, but he looked to his right and he said, hey, this guy can shoot, I'll give him the ball.
That made sure Jimmy fell and saw it. Here's Di Colo, in for Lesore in the pipe. And beautifully played into Yabusele. Lesore, the top all tournament, great pass from him there to Yabusele.
There he's going all the way. Adebayo! Bair!
So strong the play was made by Curry and Booker pushed to Colo. Yabu Sule didn't like it. Booker with a shove on to Colo. See that right in front of us here. Yabu Sule was sticking up for his teammate.
Not sure the refs caught that push. They did. There is a foul called.
Watch here. Pushes him. Bousselet comes right in with a little bump. Not going to do that to my teammate. Tensions are running high.
You'd expect them to be. This is the gold medal game. This is awesome.
I mean, this is what basketball is all about. Packed house, making noise, two teams going back and forth. ...for France. Di Colo. Jaap Ayadabayou, he didn't let Lesore get the post pass.
He's up for the shot, Di Colo with these first points of the game. The veteran, calm hand. Nice shot.
LeBron wasting no time here, going all the way, LeBron James! The speed and the strength, that combination, we've watched that for such a long time and it's been on display in this first half. Watch here, look at how fast he is, the quick spin, and it doesn't matter if you throw a body at him. Alphan is right through the contact.
Timeout goal, five point lead for the United States. Hey! The gold shoes with a golden performance so far for LeBron James. He's at the line as well, he's fouled on the way with that matrix-like dribble. French bench was complaining for a travel during the timeout on that move.
Lead out to six now for the United States. Checks back. Yabusele. There's the sword in the paint. Gives it back to De Colo.
Here is the LeSore going one-on-one with Durant, knocked away by James. It's gonna be Brandt's ball, James is pleading his case, but there's still only 3.2 seconds on the shot clock. Brandt needed help because LeSore is so strong lower body, and here's the strong hand, left hand of LeBron to give Durant the help.
A two, inbounds, Diabuzele gathers and fires. They had no chance, but was fouled. Like Adebayo, he's surprised on that. A bad foul from Adebayo at the end of the shot clock. Does it give him the landing space?
You have to give him landing space even if you don't make contact. It's been called a lot in this tournament. Bousselet with three shots at the line and a chance for France to escape here.
They were under pressure. But Bousselet just put it up in hope rather than expectation. He's got a chance at the three-point play. He has lost one final this season playing for Real Madrid, lost the Euroleague final.
France's Olympic campaign certainly turned around when he was inserted into the starting lineup. Not just the numbers but the energy and passion he's played with here at the Bercy. Missing that last attempt, two points there for France.
James to book it. Goes for three, Devin Booker, no whistle on that play, and Yabusole gets it to Nilikina, Booker fighting hard, Nilikina ends up with it, De Colo has time, Woko, clever play from LeBron on the rebound, James at the pass into Curry, Durant releases. Brilliant.
That was a great play by Curry. Couldn't take the layup on the good pass from LeBron, but he found his former Golden State Warrior teammate, Durant, who knocked it down. Seventh triple of the game for the United States. They've got a seven-point lead now.
Yep. Yabusele, lovely little dummy, Yabusele on LeBron James! Wow!
And this place explodes! LeBron tried to take the charge, and Yabusele said, give me some of that! Watch it here!
Over the top of the king! Amazing! N'Busselet with one of the plays of the Olympic Games.
French crowd think he deserves more than just that accolade. He deserves to be the most valuable player. Well, he's at the line. Try and make this a three-point play. Finishes it.
Wemby's back in the game, 2-13 to play in the half. Off, four point lead for the U.S. Yabusole continues to shine.
Twelve points, four of eight shooting so far. And the exclamation point on James. Defkari out to Durant. Phone defense from France.
Defkari with the catch and shoot. And it drops forward. Over Wemby Nyama.
Incredible shot. He had to throw it so high. Wemby. Wemby in for Batu. Lili Keina.
Ron gets in the way, Durant picks it up, Booker's out in a flash. Oh, and the foul. Borgnet knocked him over on the way down, it was a heavy fall by Devin Booker. Devin Booker really changed ends so well there. Once there was a steal, he sprinted up the floor.
Watch Booker here, gone. Here he goes, sprint. And this is a great catch from him. Just a little nudge, put him off stride. Its crowd doesn't believe so.
Great pass, great catch, great finish. Having a solid game, Devin Booker, one of the players from the final in Tokyo 2020. Dangerous time for France. Like they've been in it all the way through, emotion in this game. It's this free throw.
10-point lead. Advantage, double digits for the United States. We haven't seen much of Cordinier in this game. He had a solid semifinal and quarterfinal before that.
Wembenyama leaves it for Cordinier. Now called on Booker. Four.
Looks like... Kerr will make a sub, he'll bring Holiday in for Booker. It's two on Booker, he's at a hot start. Want to make sure he doesn't pick up three going into the second half. 120 to play in this first half.
Bousselet's been really effective. LeBron guarding him now on the side out. Continue. Back to Wembe Nyama lovely pass to Fournier.
Now Yabusole sets himself. Won't go with the three but Wembe picks it up. In for Yabusole lost the handle fouled.
The offensive rebound. United States really disappointed with that call. A tear from behind, gets his hand on the arm, it's a good call. United States making a lot of noise after that call with the referees.
Great entertainment so far. Nyebusole has delivered much of that as well. From the line, shooting at 88%.
Coming into this one from the three-throw line. That one, Wemby with the putt back. Worked out even better for France. Davis and LeBron both went for the rebound. They didn't get it.
And the long arms of Wemby was there. That was a big possession for France to cut it to seven. Holliday running it to Cordinier.
Charging foul. Cordinier with the hustle right in front of the United States bench. And Steve Kerr, who didn't like it. Jumps in, is he set?
Not sure. Gets the call. Physical contact from Holiday. Lourdinier has been throwing his body around ever since they got to the Berserk.
The captain of this French team. Paulier, another one of the veterans. Trying to get some help from the Olympic debutant, Webonyama. Fournier for three. Wow, Yabu Saleh was there, couldn't put it in.
James to Curry. Thought about it, but knocked it out. To Holliday, he delivers it. Great pass from Curry.
Nweminyama ran at him, didn't allow him to get the shot off, but the good cross-court pass to Holliday, who didn't hesitate, not known for his outside shooting, and he knocks it down. Endpoint game again. Shot clock turned off at the end of this first half.
Incredible defensive play by Nweminyama not to allow Curry to get the shot off. ...on yet. In the air pressure by Holiday.
Here's Wemby going one-on-one with Durant. Blocked going down. Gives it to Yabuzele.
And it's in! That will pounce! What a finish from Yabuzele! He's done it in so many ways!
And the French are up on their feet here. They have finished strongly, but it's still the United States ahead. What a first half it's been. The crowd has been delighted. Look at the cut here from Yabusele, and that's a tough finish, going away from the basket.
Watch here, over Davis, falls to the ground. Thank you very much. Score at half time in the men's basketball gold medal game, France 41, United States of America 49. The United States with a 10-point lead over France, but Yabusele has put up an extraordinary performance. Wemby solid as well.
Yeah, those two guys have really come to play. They've been real effective in the paint with the two-point shot. It's just those threes.
have to improve there. Beat for 16 in the first half. In order to keep up with this American team, you're going to have to make some threes. And when you look at the United States, well, they've only shot two free throws so far. That's interesting.
Nine players have scored. 50% field goal, 45% from three. The rotation has been key for the United States. For France, of course, the outside shooting has been the difficulty.
The big difference between the two teams, you would say, is that outside shooting. There's two legends of international basketball, Pau Gasol and Tony Parker. They're being witness to something special.
And the good news is, there's more to come. The speed of that first tackle. Both teams flying up and down the court.
This crowd, who has been spectacular ever since we moved to Paris, is taking it up at another level tonight. All set to go for the second half. The third quarter of the men's basketball gold medal game.
The United States with an eight-point lead over France at halftime. Booker puts up the first effort. Slapped back by Embiid.
Durant. Locked. Not enough by Wembynjama.
Durant has such a high release. Wembynjama almost got it. Maybe tipped it.
But Durant just too good. Ten-point lead now for the United States. LBC in the game. He didn't play in that final at Tokyo 2020 despite being on the roster. Wemby, twisting, turning, trying to get around Embiid.
Leaves it for Cordinier. Shot clock's down to two. Fires now.
Off. Defense from Embiid and Wemby Nyama. LeBron.
It's a curry. Only scoring the one so far. ...called on Booker, he came off with two fouls.
He's got a third early in the third quarter. Quick three from Curry, dropped the ball on that shot, and here you see Booker with block out from Albassey. Nyama hit the deck.
A lot of pressure from Ibide. Cordinier with the pass into Wemby. No problem. Long strides, long arms of Wemby.
He catches it at the far line. He's almost at the rim with one move. Impressive. 15 points for Wemba Nyama and a heavy fall again from Booker. He's really been struggling.
Physical game. Both teams. Giving an inch out There. Hit the deck twice in this game already, Booker. No, LeBron James has hit the deck once.
You'll be hearing about that for a long time. Phone defense from France. Curry, quick pass to James. Embiid.
Heavy. Contact from Yavuz Saleh. In that zone defense and Embiid was on the block and he just ducked in.
Good feed for him, he's too big if he's that deep. He had to foul, holding that hand. Working hard there, Joel Embiid. He's used to this hostile atmosphere, it was the same in Lille.
Morning Cameroon, there were suggestions he could have played for France. He chose the United States. And he knocks down this first foul shot. Seems to thrive off it though when he came out for warm-ups. Gesturing to the crowd.
Seems to enjoy it. But his first two points of this one, Joel Embiid to make it a ten point game again. Didier, trying to spot the opening and Durant just took the ball off him. LeBron, out to Curry, waits for his moment. And that's why.
So good at using the shot break and then being able to remain on balance. That was a great pass from LeBron as well. Those two combined, it is something special. It's in the air to Yabusule.
LBC. Yabusule was superb in that first half and showing his strength there. Well they switch with Booker, he's smaller than Yabusule and he also has the three fouls, so an easy bucket for Yabusule. Yama trying to get in on James. Embiid now.
Houdini with the slap on Embiid. And Yabusole giving up too much size and height there. Pretty easy in a one-on-one situation that deep. Post entry from LeBron and with no double, he's just gonna get wherever he wants to go. Rudy Gobert has only played 4 minutes 50 in the game so far.
On the line again. Looking comfortable. Those are the United States right now.
Perfect from the foul line Joel Embiid. And here comes Gobert. Wow, they saw what kind of problems Embiid was giving them.
And here comes Gobert to try to neutralize Embiid in the post. Lead now out to 13 for the United States. Al-Bisi. Driving, gets it to Gobert.
Trying to find an option. Plays it off Embiid's foot. And Embiid and Gobert tangled up. Said before no one wants to give an inch Embiid didn't that time. Watch here.
Physical. It'll allow him to go anywhere. It stands right over him. Likes to cause trouble now and then, Rudy Gobert. And a B.
Maybe, could go back. Now Elbisi. He plays it out to Yabusele.
He's got to move quickly here, under pressure from LeBron. And draws the foul. LeBron tried to strip Yabusele, we've seen him do that time and time again.
He's saying he didn't make contact, watch how he beats him with the dribble, and he tries to swipe down. Watch LeBron, he didn't like the call, he didn't think he made any contact. I don't think the States did get five steals in that first half.
Yabusele on the line for France. Top scorer in the game, 18 points, Yabusole, but a highlight reel that will live long in the memory. Dunking on LeBron James.
Fans think that's more than enough to give him the MVP of the Olympic Games. Drink plenty for France. 19 points, Yabu Saleh.
It's coming from the French bench on how to defend this but Curry just fires away and says you can't stop that. That's a pick and roll where Steph Curry sets the screen which is unique as a guard and they didn't switch it and he just popped out to the three-point line for the easy two they'll have to adjust on this play watch they both go to the ball you can't leave that guy open Time Out Call by France All the big names are here, including heads of state. France have work to do. They are 14 points behind what is a formidable, irrepressible United States offense.
So difficult to stop and there you see that pick and pop. Usually you pick and pop with a big man because LeBron can handle the ball so well as a front court player. They use Curry in the pop. He's feeling it.
Really turned it on in that semi-final win over Serbia where he was hitting threes easily. Hasn't been as many in this game but some vital ones. That's the 11th for the United States. Here's Di Colo.
Benyama leaving it for Koulibaly. Wemby. Puts it up for Gobert in the battle with Embiid and the tussling continued off the ball. And I think they're going to call a double foul on Embiid and Gobert.
And that's a reaction to what happened before. Let's watch it here. Over the top, they get hooked up. Let's clean it up.
Feles, double foul. Gobert went in to disrupt Embiid. Technical foul called on Steve Kerr and so it's De Colo on the line for France. Gets the shot, it's United States ball. Technical foul was on the bench.
I think it came from someone at the end of the bench. James passing to Curry. He gives it to Booker. Loses it. Came off Gobert last.
It's United States ball. Six seconds on the clock. Good recovery on defense from France.
He tried to set up a play with Curry to the corner, but they reacted well to it. And Gobert read it beautifully. De Colo.
Has the Abusole, but uses Koulibaly instead. This is the easy shot there, Koulibaly. They still get the ball back.
De Colo puts up. the three and knocks it down and they need those threes that's their first three of the second half only their fourth of the game and point lead for the u.s. curry gets a pass out to book up threading the needle there Steph Curry LeBron James Passes it to Durant, coming inside, fires away now and how do you stop that? Well I actually think that France played good defense on that possession, they really closed them down, you see Wemby Nyama lost. This shoe fell to the ground. I think they can find it.
Pretty easy to spot that one. That possession with my France was excellent defense. We have some of the best players in the world. Good offense can beat the good defense. In the story of this game, United States with the twelve-point lead, five and a half to play in the third term.
Need some time for Uemanyama to put on that. I don't know if that number exists, size 2. Gives the French crowd a chance to get into it, coming up the floor, and Embiid just stepped accidentally on the back of his foot. It always seems to be Embiid, doesn't it? De Colo.
Gobert to De Colo. Here's Wemby. Tried to play it in for Gobert and Bede knocked it away.
Those two are having a love... it's an incredible battle. It looked like it came off Embiid.
Wemby has the matchup with Durant. He hasn't been aggressive enough when he gets in the paint. He's looking to pass. Might have to take that jumper over the top.
Boussoulet. Not sure what he was thinking there. Tossed it out of bounds. Way out of bounds.
Anthony Davis has to go over and retrieve it. Putting the pressure up high, direct, gathers comfortably. Here's James.
Pick from Curry, let's see if they change the coverage. LeBron goes away from it. Nice to go off the glass, but well off target there, LeBron James.
Decolore. Yabu select. ...gets the screen from Gobert and goes to the hoop and Wemba Yama anticipates. Durant actually boxed him out there, he put a body on him with those long arms just reached over the top for the tip-in.
And Steph has lost the handle. Koulibaly with the step, won't go off the glass, MB picks it up and LeBron is waiting and delivering. Well, Koulibaly missed the shot.
LeBron never got over half court, so it was an easy two for him at the other end. Well-point lead for the United States. Deco look. Wemby for three. Superb.
He punches his fist to the crowd. And he's trying to get him up, off their seats as he goes to the bench. An opportunity of a lifetime. Wemba Yama is living up to it. So I'm now called United States.
The atmosphere at the Bersi Arena and at the basketball in Lille as well has just been special. We knew the basketball was going to be quality. We've seen that again.
But the fans have also lived up to this superb tournament. No matter who's playing, what time it is, it doesn't matter. It's been a festive atmosphere inside and outside of the Bersi and Lille.
up in Lille as well. These French fans have been special all the way through. They've got a special talent here too, and Victor Weminyama, who gets this ovation.
They love him every time he's on the big screen. screen but also on that big screen there one of the other reasons is Thierry Henry is here too. Perhaps the only person that could get a bigger ovation than Wemba Nyama.
Well LeBron James went right over to Thierry Henry when he came in to the arena. Respect for Mr. Henry. Four minutes to go in the third turn. United States with a nine point lead over France. Curry, whatever, from the United States.
Curry stepping out. Sloppy in the United States, last few possessions, turning it over. New France, some life.
De Colo. Fournier in the game. Nicolo puts it up for Gobert.
Well, he got his hand to it, but couldn't direct it to the basket. Gobert got to do better than that, that close. It's a good pass. Holliday for the three, in and out.
No United States player underneath for the rebound, quick shot from Holliday. Nicolo leaves this for Fournier. Bear alongside, hits the screen, pulls the trigger, and fires. Oh, he talked about hitting the threes. That's the third three of the third quarter.
For the French, we've seen Fournier get going. Maybe he can keep the momentum for France. Lebron James steps back for the three.
Whoa, nothing but net. And that's the response from the king to quiet this French crowd. One after play in the third term.
De Colo thinking about the three. Puts it to Gobert instead. And he's in a tangle with Tatum. About called.
There's Fournier, used the screen once, used the screen twice. Knocks it down off the dribble, and LeBron, he gave him some space. Nothing but net.
Well James, the 12 points, of course he got the triple-double in the game against Serbia. 23 players have done that, he's done it twice, Fournier! Quick thinking.
5 from Fournier, he was scoreless up until that point. They need him in this second half. Davis. Defense from Courtenay denied Edwards the ball, forced a turnover. And they've got the ball now, France.
The defensive pressure everyone talked about, and now the fans are getting on their feet. The sixth man for France. We've seen the French players really gesture to the crowd. They want him louder and louder and louder. Lele Blur brings out for the team in Blanc.
Cordinier for two. Haven't seen him get into the game. One of the best performers for France in the finals games, the quarters and the semi. Edwards.
To the baseline Davis with a massive putback. He's been excellent on that offensive glass today that was a tough finish he's fading away but got it to go off the glass. Ecolot, Yapusole, no way around Davis. Strong at both ends. Edwards.
Durant wants the ball on the post. Lede in for Durant. Fresh in by De Colo, gets the steal. Cordinier's got pace.
And draws the foul. We've seen Cordinier attack the rim in transition. He has one thing in mind in the open floor.
He's looking to throw it down. Watch here. Eyes lighten up, going at the rim.
Davis with the bump. Good call, that'll be two shots. Teams in the penalty situation which means every foul for the remainder of this quarter will be two shots at the line. That was in the act of shooting anyway so, Rodinier would be shooting three throws regardless. Rodinier 18 points per game in the last two.
He's 0 for 5 today and hasn't scored. Just to get on the board. Still not going in this one for Codinier.
He's in Italy for Bologna. Has been with the Atlanta Hawks before. Codinier is not having the best of games here, but still fighting hard.
That's going to be United States ball. They needed those the French. Nine-point lead for the United States. Drop into that zone.
Three zone. Durant just looks at this up. Sizing it up rather.
As Davis loses the handle. DiColo. The last minute of this third turn. Mbanyama posting up. Gives it to Fournier, into traffic.
And Davis gets the turnover. Durant puts it up for Edwards. Oh! throw it high and Anthony Edwards will go get it. What a pass and what a finish.
Leads out to 11 for the US. Decolon driving. Mournier comes back for the three. What a response. 48 time.
It's been clutch before for this French team. Three-point shooting in the second half has improved from France. But the US are still ahead.
Shot clock turned off. Durant to Edwards. And Durant wasn't looking. Di Colo. Oh, Durant gets the block.
No, goaltending. It's gonna count Miscommunication from Edwards and Durant Durant passes to Edwards, he wanted him to go one on one And he threw it back to Durant And DiColo was smart enough To make the steal and score It's not quite the end of the third quarter They're gonna look at this It looks like a goaltend to me, hits the glass first And that... Huge play to end the third.
I think the question might be about the shot clock. There might be 0.1 second on it when the goaltending was called. The confirmation that the two will count and that is the end of the third quarter and what a big quarter for France. They ended that strongly at three-quarter time.
France 66, USA 72. Can he kick? We're going to do the definition of Genesis Cuney. 3, 2, 1, MAKES IT! Talked about how important the three point shot was going to be.
Fournier hit two in that quarter. France hit four. And the lead is down to six.
It's the final quarter of the men's basketball at Paris 2024. A competition that promised so much. It has delivered and it continues to and we're in for another grandstand finish. Wembenyama for three. Short.
Booker gets it out to Durant. Foul by Di Colo. Both Durant and LeBron had something to say to DiColo. A lot of talking out there in this game.
It means so much. Doesn't matter how many titles you've won, this is extremely important. Holiday in for James, no look pass to Durant.
Davis! dominating the boards Davis six offensive rebounds for his eight points Mbembe leaves it for Batum, Lesautos on, Fournier to Di Colo Tried to get it in for Wemby, but Holliday did enough. It went out of bounds. Durant couldn't keep it in play.
France ball, but only four seconds on the shot clock. Holliday was really physical with DiColo over here. DiColo came over to the refs and showed them.
A mark on his arm. Said he got fouled. But Drew Holiday really picking up the defense for the United States.
What a performance from De Colo. Hasn't played much in this, but he's really delivered in this gold medal game for France. The veteran of this French team. Here's the other end of that spectrum.
Koulibaly, 20-year-old. Fournier with the step-back three. No. Less sorts there, though. He finishes it.
Fournier down. Good job by Fournier at the end of the clock to just get it up on the rim. That was important. And Lesore did the work with the jam.
Durant. Kamehameha. Davidson a tussle off the ball. Still Durant. Lesore getting his hands in there.
Can't knock it away. Holliday. With the dribbling.
Durant fires with the shot clock running down. That's no problem for Kevin Durant. Incredible defense from France all the way to the end of the clock. But again, Durant hits the shot.
One year driving, Davis gets his head to it. Booker can't keep it in. because he was pushed out by Gullibali. Another time where Durant just comes up big at the end of the clock.
Maybe Lesore went too much to help and left Durant out there. Bails him out again at the end of the clock. You can impress Steph Curry, you know you're shooting well. 13 threes made for United States. All of it.
James, losing it. Here comes Wemby. LeSore, gets ahead with the red. Draws the foul.
This is about as physical a game as you can see. The referee's really letting him go. Fournier did a good job stripping LeBron on the other end.
Rehkos for the same type of play here. Commits the foul. Good energy from Lesore.
Here in the fourth. Three throws here for France in the fourth quarter. Seven from twelve from the line.
Two there for Lesort, but the pressure is on France to put those away. They need those baskets. Durant. Davis is trying to get Wemby's attention.
Durant out to Holliday, who thought about it. They're saying travel. Play continues and the foul is called. Yeah, Holiday maybe left his feet over there. It was tough, but Lesore came over and crushed Durant from behind.
Watch here. Oh, did he keep that foot down? I'm not so sure, but watch Lesore.
Crushes Durant from behind. Durant with a look at Lesore. Durant will come out of the game, placed by Curry.
to him and Holiday looks confident beyond the arc. Remember he's a champion, an NBA champion. He understands what it takes to get it done in big games. Two three six points for Holiday. Wemby Nyama with the response.
Off target. Lead out to 11 for the United States. It was six at the beginning of this quarter. Davis has lost it there.
Fournier for Batum. Wemby draws the foul. After the turnover, LeBron was late getting back up the floor, trailed the play, and allowed the opening for France to get Wemby to the line.
France 8 from 13 so far, shooting three throws. Team turnovers now for the United States The foul line France are not making them pay The second one 10-point game 629 to play One point for Wenmenyama. Yabusole, the second top scorer with 19 for France.
Holliday. James. Scanning the floor. Now drives, gets it out to Holliday, who's opening the corner, won't go for the United States.
Took so long to run that play, really, LeBron dribbled so long, but Holliday got a good look, just didn't knock it down. On yet. Nearly Keener. A Cooley-Bally run. LeSore's in the paint.
Mismatch with Holiday and finishes it just in time. LeSore just too strong if you have a guard on him down there. Lower body strength and finish. And the pressure right on Adebayo. He's gotten away from it.
Here comes LeBron! King James is master of this domain. Play started with 48 diving on the floor that opened it up and James took advantage 10-point lead again for the US Koulibaly, step back, shot, off the glass. Tough shot from Koulibaly. Not afraid to make a play in the fourth.
We are in to the last five minutes of the gold medal game. LeBron's lost the handle. He says he was fouled.
It's going to be France ball though. Watch here, rolling to the hoop. He just lost it. The store hit him after he lost it. Reynald check out of the game and Durant comes in.
Kameleama on the bench for now, 21 points. Nekolo. Yavuz Saleh Lesort thought Yabusele was going to go along the baseline and they've given it away. Lesort had a good matchup. Holiday just got rid of it.
He could have held on to it and got a good look. Time here for Booker and blocked by Koulibaly. Durant gathers, puts it up and it somehow falls to Batum.
Quick pass out. Lesort can't get to it. It's agonizing at both ends.
United States had good opportunities to block. Kept popping out of his hands, then you thought France would get a layup, the pass was just too far. Some nerves showing here, a lot of tension in this arena right now.
Feel it in the crowd. A lot of pressure on this man, Wenben Yama, on his Olympic debut. NBA Rookie of the Year.
No doubt he's got plenty more of these type of games to come. The man who's seen all of it LeBron James Whistle on the play. Now it's Batum holding Curry looking to run Pin down to get Curry open Batum Too aggressive foul number four on France.
Looks like they're gonna zone the out-of-bounds Durant can't keep it in Good call from the sideline. They jumped up and called for the 2-3 on the out of bounds. United States looked a little confused on what they were running against it.
France have done a good job of mixing up the defenses today. So proud trying to drive France towards victory in this gold medal game. But they're down at the moment.
De Colo reduces that deficit. It's a six point game. James to Curry, pressure by Batum and he's given it away, Yabusole!
He's all gonna go all the way there, LeBron didn't want him to, foul. Yabusole really attacked the rim that time, but it was the defense at the other end. They trapped Curry out there, and Yabusole jumped in to pass the game, and here he goes! It would have been spectacular if he got it.
Shot to the face. Watch here. Just misses. Throws become important for France.
They've struggled today from the line. Whistler has been one of the better performers from the foul line. Six from eight for him.
But they are missing these crucial, crucial shots. 9 for 16 from the free throw line. Frustration for Couleé, frustration for France.
That time the United States look really shaky on offense here in the fourth. Let's see what they decide to run. LeBron will bring it up.
Five-point game, 3.20 to play. Booker, Curry, from the foul line, the floater, misses everything. And now Batum picks up. Wemby Nyama's got Yabusole with him, and there's only one way to go. No foul on the play, Wemby Nyama makes sure of it.
Wow, what a block from Durant to stop the first attempt. But Wemby was there, and this place is alive. The first arena is erupting. LeBron to Curry to quieten things down. Of course, Steph Curry with the three.
And how about the around the back pass from James? They ran that pick and roll again. And Steph comes up big. 15 triples for the United States.
Six points ahead now. Wemby Nyama pulls back for the three. No.
Durant, oh, it is physical out there. Great effort from Durant to go after that rebound. Here's Wemby.
It's too long. And here's the around the back pass. And those two have talked about wanting to play with each other.
And we come down to the gold medal game, under three. And it's pick and roll with Curry and James. That was cold.
And Prancer in the penalty, which means this is two shots at the line for Durant. Fouled on the rebound. Two possession game right now, Durant can make that three, and does it.
United States, seven for seven from the free throw line. 222. to play. It's still tense here, but Durant is putting the United States in a very strong position. 8-point game. Timeout called.
France used their second timeout and one more left. Coach Kalei knows how important every possession is here. Can't come up with any empty ones.
Down eight. Really need to score. 2.22 to play. Eight point lead for the United States. There's still time for France, but they need the big finish.
Crowd is behind them. Decolore brings it forward. Driving Decolore. Checks back now. Fires away.
Decolore having a fine game for France. Tough shot from Nando. Not afraid of the moment here in the fourth. The veteran.
...points the difference. Steph Curry. Comes back.
Again with the fake and fires away. Steph Curry at his best. It was a pick and roll with James again.
Curry! Incredible shot. That's home for the reply.
Oh, the captain leading by example. They won't go away. Every time the United States puts up space in between them, France comes roaring back.
90 seconds to play. Curry to Durant, back again to Curry. And a double him. Quick passing out, Booker goes down the baseline, kicks it out to Curry. Again makes space for himself.
Oh! Unbelievable! Unbelievable!
Well, there were some people that were worried about Steph Curry early on in the Olympics. And as he lit it up the last two games. Steph Curry trying to put this one to bed. Two back-to-back triples.
And the United States have a nine-point lead. Three possessions. Seven for 11 from three for Curry.
He had nine the other night. He's a phenomenon. Fournier losing it, Yabusule picks up, they need this ball.
Fournier, they need points too, Davis says no! Still Fournier, for three, no. Big rebound off the United States last.
France Bowl less than a minute to guard fantastic defensive possession from Davis moving his feet disrupting with those long arms United States took curry out on that possession to bring in Holiday for defense. France have done so well to keep up with the United States the whole way. But they need a massive finish here.
Batum. Out to Wembynjama. He's got time. And measures it. Big three.
Big three. And here's the offense for defense sub. Curry comes back out on the floor.
Coach Kerr really frustrated that they gave him a chance to get the ball. He gave up such an easy three there. Curry. They try to get a lot of his hands. They get more of him here.
Here they come. Durant. Back to Curry.
lovely dribble puts it up this is extraordinary have you ever seen anything like it but yeah it tries to or gets it out to you for the reply davis comes up big and gives it to lebron the united states are heading for gold devin booker applies the finish 20 seconds to go they're ahead by 11. France will keep going. Fournier to Wembynama. Yabu Soler.
Whistle on the play. But Steph Curry is a magician. Just unbelievable.
They tried to get a lot of his hands on a few possessions. They keep running at him. But he found a way to get it off and knock it down. What a player.
Should we mention it's his Olympic debut? He's done it all and he's on the verge of gold at the Olympic Games. Oh Batum has really, the enforcer for France has taken one there. He's gonna have to come off disappointment for Batum but what a battling performance. 16 seconds on the clock.
Houdini trying to finish off well for France, but Curry is the player who's finishing this off. He's just going to dribble this out, hold it onto it. France trying to foul, but it's not going to change the score. Performance for the ages from Steph Curry.
Just incredible to watch. United States were pushed, but their talent has prevailed. What a performance. The United States win the gold medal at Paris 2024. It's five straight for the USA.
Final score in the men's basketball gold medal game France 87 the United States of America 98 they have won the gold medal Had a slow start to the Olympic Games, but in the semi-final he gives you nine threes and in the final he gives you eight. 17 threes in the last two games. It's heartbreak for Wemba Nyama. He said it was the opportunity of a lifetime.
Well, he's played extraordinary for LeBron James. Unbelievable, he brought out the gold shoes, he's gonna take the gold medal. It's looking hard on Wemby right now, but he is such a talent, he's so young, he'll be back. Yeah, he showed up today too, Wemby Nyama, he's had his struggles.
shooting the ball at times in the tournament he goes for 26.7 rebounds today you can see the respect from both teams this was a battle all the way through no one would give an an inch with just too much firepower from the United States. That's who about to go over with blood on his head. That's how physical this game was.
Yeah, Bousselet was extraordinary. Kevin Durant getting the high fives from Carmelo Anthony. Another goal for Kevin Durant. It'll be his fourth.
Disappointment for France, it's Silva again, but they really pushed the United States. They really did, their performance in here at the Bursi Arena has been incredible, the fans have been awesome, France basketball is in such a great place. LeBron James isn't in a great place right now, the 39-year-old coming back, played...
In 2004, where they only won bronze, and now three golds for LeBron. Fournier giving the team talk. They pay tribute to what has been an incredible home crowd.
Amazing. I feel fortunate to have been a part of it in here. See Carmelo Anthony, he was barking instructions all game out there to his former teammates of USA Basketball. And Steve Kerr, what about him?
Another great achievement. He's coached Steph Curry for so long, these two have won so much together, and now they're adding another to that, a gold medal as head coach for Steve Kerr, of course won it as assistant before. These American coaches and players have been involved in so many big games.
You know, reading their quotes after that semi-final win against Serbia, they said nothing compares to this. It's tears for Wimonyama, heartbreak for France. But they should be proud. This nation should be proud of what they've achieved. But in the end, the United States are just a juggernaut that cannot be stopped.
Let's take a seat. Ron James celebrating with those voices to him. He has done it again.
Still sticking in for France after what they've achieved. It's been impressive but falling up short at the end. Koulibaly just telling, talking to Wenminyama there, these two will be there for a long time.
This man has been here for a long time and he continues to deliver. Ron James making history once more for the United States. One of three players to score a triple-double at the Olympic Games.
Omoyama says au revoir, that he will be back. Confirmation of that final score in the men's basketball gold medal game. France 87, the United States of America 98. They win the gold medal.
France will have silver. United States of America taking on France in the gold medal game of the men's basketball it started with a bang. The speed of the game was so impressive and Wimberyama when he threw that down this place was going nuts.
It was crazy in that first half shots were raining down from everywhere big buckets but the United States were on top. But Yabusele was on top of LeBron James for a while. They will see for a long, long time. And in the third, they started to make some threes, France.
But another athletic play from the United States. We saw so many of those in the tournament. They kept battling. LeSort, he battled all tournament long.
The spectacular stuff and everyone up and applauding. But then Steph Curry put on the three-point show and that nailed it for the United States. It was incredible. They tried to get it out of his hand.
The ball handling. How about that one? Steph Curry and the United States gold medalists at Paris 2024. The 11-point win for the United States built on the back of some very impressive shooting. Yeah, you can look at the shooting here.
Total field goals 54%, but how about the 18 threes that they made? Never missed a free throw, and you look on the other side, seven free throws missed from France. That was crucial, but just too strong all the way in the tournament the United States.
They shot it well from start to finish. Mesdames et messieurs, la cérémonie des vainqueurs... It's time now for the victory ceremony of the France Basketball at Paris 2024. The home crowd has pushed France all the way.
A final at the final hurdle, but still impressive from France. They were awesome to watch. They really lifted this crowd.
Welcome the battle... United States, what a team. They have done it once more.
They were forced to work hard in the semi-final, in the final. But when they needed to, they really showed their worth. I wondered if they were going to have to come into some tough games, and they had two tough ones. The semi, we're down 13, going to the fourth, and then the final today. Curry took over and how about Serbia?
They pushed the United States as well in the semi-final then backed up to defeat Germany to win the bronze medal They played some of the best basketball in the tournament Serbia led by Nikola Jokic Also getting a lot of appreciation from the fans, Serbia. So many travel to watch this team. Nikola Jokic, of course, their superstar. We saw a lot of their fans outside after that bronze.
They were celebrating for a long time. They're having a good time, Serbia. Curry is just getting to grips with things. It's his first Olympic Games, it'll be his first medal. The medals will be presented by...
IOC Executive Board Member and Adlalovic will be one of the medal presenters. IOC member, and Mr. Paul Gazol, member of the CU, two silver medals and one bronze medal. Everyone knows well, IOC member, Paul Gazol, the Spanish basketball legend.
One bronze medal, accompanied by... Accompanied by... Sheikh Saad Ali Al Thani, President of FIBA. FIBA President.
Sheikh Al Thani, the FIBA President also in attendance. Medaille de bronze, representing Serbia. Bronze medalist representing Serbia. First team to step up, the bronze medalist, Serbia.
The Superb Olympic Games missed 2020 back in 2024. Thoroughly deserving their medal. No question. Their match ended early today so they've had plenty of time. to enjoy themselves.
So great to see them enjoying this moment. Beautifully designed medal, of course, has a bit of the Eiffel Tower in it as well. We'll take home this very memorable piece of bronzeware.
Such a heartbreaking loss they had to the United States. And it was impressive to see them come back strong in the bronzeware. bronze medal game.
See what it meant to them to come away with a medal. They were fantastic in that win to get the bronze. It's actually a second Olympic medal for Nikola Jokic along with Bogdan Bogdanovich.
They won silver in Rio after defeat to the United States in that final. Jokic with another accolade to add to his growing collection. Misic was excellent too.
He got contributions up and down the bench. Jokic another important player. Abramovich ran things and did it ever so well. Didn't see a lot of WDL outs, but he was part of the team and everyone contributes. Yeah, everyone does.
You can see the chemistry with this team as well. They were a close-knit group, showed pride and passion for their country. Milutinov with the last medal for Serbia.
Bronze medalist, CEP Paris 2024. Getting the obligatory photos, Serbia. Also received the special posters made especially for each medal. The iconic games posters being delivered by Sheik Al Thani.
Special moment for all of them. They've been celebrating all day Serbia. It's so difficult for them because they played earlier.
But it's all smiles. They are loving every moment of the Olympic Games. Special for every athlete and of course even more special when you get to take home a medal on the iconic games poster.
The war in the crowd means one thing, France are on the podium. Bilal Koulibaly Koulibaly just 20 years of age, his first silver medal Mathieu Strasel Also for Strasel Who could ever forget that shot from Strasel, the four point play Wendanyama Wendanyama was in tears before but it's happiness now, it's joy now because they have the silver medal Freddie Gobert Gobert, he's second after playing in the 2020 final Mathias Le Sors Also with another Another one of the Olympic debutants getting his first medal. Performed admirably throughout.
And what about Nando Di Colo? Fourth Olympic Games, second silver for him. Well, he certainly was ready to go in the fourth quarter today.
Came up with some big plays to try to keep him in it. Nando Di Colo also backing up from the 2020. Final, another silver for him. The first though for Isaias Coutinier who really showed his quality.
Loved watching him play with so much energy. Speaking of energy, Yabu Saleh. He was special, just proud, loved him.
...highlight for him in the final. Al-Bissi, who didn't play in the 2020 final, but did here and gets another silver medal. Batu did everything for his nation.
The captain, the leader, great defender. Frank Niliquina, second silver medal for him. Brilliant French outfit pushed the United States all the way. The Bears have been here before.
It's the first for Wemba Nyama. These two veterans, as well as Yabusele, with their second silver. They played basketball in this tournament that these French fans will never forget.
Even though they came up short, they earned the respect of so many with the way they played and how they performed. French fans deserve a medal. They have been incredible. Goosebumps every time they sing that national anthem.
It's the memories they will take. France, silver medalists of the men's basketball at Paris 2024. Now for the fifth straight time. It's five straight for the United States.
Steph Curry for the first time, LeBron James has been here before, he's only won only won two gold medals, it'll be his third. But how about Steph Curry, Olympic debut, what a way to finish. He lit up this crowd with a performance for the ages.
Edwards. Ron James, who will be the MVP and deservedly so, he got a triple-double only the fourth time, he did it twice, he did it in 2012. Kevin Durant, history, four gold medals, the first basketball player to do so. He came up big in that game against Serbia, big shot late. when they needed it.
Derek White, we didn't see much of him in this final, but he played an important role throughout the tournament. Tyrese Halliburton. Halliburton, his first Olympic gold on his debut.
Tatum backing up from 2020. Jerome Embiid selected the United States. He's been fun, no question. He enjoys every moment, Joel Embiid. He played very well. NBA MVP for 2023. Holiday backing up an NBA championship with the gold medal.
The defender physical stepped up on some threes today as well. Second gold medal after Tokyo 2020. And how about Anthony Davis? One in 2012 hasn't played since then comes back.
But he was great today especially on the offensive glass. Devin Booker, another of that Boston Celtics trio in this team, getting an NBA championship and a gold medal. Phoenix Suns, I should say, are getting confused now.
It's that part of the Olympic Games. No NBA championship for Devin Booker yet, but it is a gold medal. He was good in that first half though, wasn't he?
He came out shooting the ball so well. Party is beginning at the Bercy Arena. The US fans are enjoying every moment of this.
They enjoy the show put on by Steph Curry at the end of that final. It's an incredible shooting. And how about LeBron James? Four medals, three gold. He has come back and showed the world what he is capable of.
Statistically great leadership, you could see that at the start of the tournament all the way to the final. Memories will live long for the United States. The United States of America, gold medalists at the men's basketball at Paris 2024. Mesdames et messieurs, si vous le pouvez, veuillez vous lever pour l'hymne des Etats-Unis d'Amérique. Ladies and gentlemen, if you're able, please stand for the anthem of the United States of America. Fifth straight time at the Olympic Games men's basketball.
The United States anthem is played as they are the gold medalists. And it's time now to take the obligatory pictures. Confirmation at the men's basketball victory ceremony. United States with gold, France silver and Serbia with bronze. The Eiffel Tower in that medal as well.
Victory always tastes good. I've seen plenty of victories, Steph Curry. Here comes the coaching staff, get them involved. So interesting that they are such great individual players, but there's always questions about how can they play as a team. They did in this Olympic Games.
They did, you know, they shared the ball so well. You can see it in here. They were a together group that ensured...
...competing with each other. Tell everyone, delighted. LeBron, chief among them, came back to try and win another gold medal, and he's achieved his objective.
He came in with gold shoes just to show how much he wanted it. And how about France? They played so well.
Incredible tournament. They really did, and I think that when you look at the roster, especially with that guy... I expect to be back. Tim Kole has been here since 2009, led his team to two silver medals, lost two finals to the United States, but this is the United States.
These three here were special all the way. The party continues. for Serbia.
They're having a great time. They are loving it. Nikola Jokic really enjoyed his time at the Olympic Games.
These two wanted to play together and boy did they play together. Yeah, especially late in fourth quarters. They worked so well together. Remy taking some mementos.
He still looks disappointed but I think in time he'll realize what he's achieved here in front of his home fans. ...and Durant was important in that final as well. Durant has seen it all before.
He's fourth gold medal. Braun and Davis, they were together in 2012. They've come back for this one. They're together at the club side as well, the Lakers.
Tatum backing up from the NBA. Pesic, you think it might be perhaps the end of his reign at Serbia. He was taken to the bronze medal.
I thought Pesic's game plan against the United States was spot on. He really delivered. United States, it wasn't all easy and France made it very difficult for them and they deserve this accolade the French.
It's a superb team and the Stifle Tower taking a bit of the Eiffel Tower with him in that medal. I got music. I'm proud of you, man. Great job out there. Way to represent the family.
Way to represent the country. What up, boy? It's not just a special moment for the players, but everyone around them, the family. All their friends, they're part of this tour.
Of course, and so proud. There's Grant Hill, took control of this United States team. Made the selection of the players. He chose the right one. Now his choices look like they were spot on.
Good job, Well, they're sending out a warning. Eric Spolstra with Dwayne Wade. Eddie Parker showing his respect to the United States team. Playing there for so long. Another gold medal for Adebayo.
...line for the United States, special, especially on a defensive end. Their versatility is shown through in these games. Serbia are having fun.
They are. They're enjoying every single moment here. Bogdan Bogdanovich, his second Olympic Games medal, winning silver in 2016, bronze now. I think the celebrations are going to continue for Serbia.