LeBron James expressed that his third Olympic gold medal felt the most special as he, the NBA's all-time leading scorer, contributed to the United States' 98-87 victory over France in the final on Saturday. The Los Angeles Lakers superstar made a comeback to the Olympics after a 12-year hiatus, scoring 14 points, grabbing 10 rebounds, and providing six assists, helping Team USA secure their fifth consecutive men's basketball gold.
"It's a significant moment for USA basketball," James remarked. "I'm just savoring the moment. I feel incredibly honored to still be able to play at such a high level, alongside 11 other exceptional players and a superb coaching staff, representing our country." The US defeated France in the Olympic final for the second time in a row, with James rejoining the team and four-time NBA champion Stephen Curry making his debut in the tournament.
"It was fantastic. I don't think you'd want it any other way than to compete against the host team. The atmosphere was terrific," James commented. The 39-year-old had won bronze at Athens 2004 and gold with the "Redeem Team" in Beijing 2008. He also played in London 2012 but hadn't participated in the Games since.
"It's the best one because it's the one that's happening now," James said, implying this might be his last Olympics. "I can't envision myself playing in LA in 2028. Even though I didn't foresee playing in Paris either. But in four years, I can't see it," he added. With the French crowd focused on the Bercy Arena, the American stars, led by Curry and an energized James, dominated the game, with James sporting gleaming golden sneakers for the occasion.
The outcome was similar to the Tokyo Olympic gold medal game three years prior, but for the French, this defeat felt more poignant on their home court in front of a captivated audience. "It's their remarkable talent that made the difference," said France's coach, Vincent Collet. "It's a final against the Americans, here in Paris, and despite the emotions, we tried to harness them, but it wasn't feasible."
Near Notre Dame cathedral by the Seine, the French supporters, including President Emmanuel Macron, gathered at Bercy, akin to pilgrims, believing in the possibility of victory. The gold medal game showcased breathtaking skills, intense emotions, and a hint of aggression. James initiated the action with a powerful dunk, setting the pace for the Americans, who built a 14-point lead by the third quarter. However, France, spurred on by their home crowd, rallied back, reducing the gap to 82-79 with three minutes left.
Then, with the crowd standing and France on the brink of an improbable win, Curry came to the rescue, sinking three long-range three-pointers in the last two minutes. Curry ended with 24 points, including eight three-pointers, while James contributed 14 points, 10 assists, and six rebounds. As the Americans rejoiced, the French team, led by Victor Wembanyama, was left in tears. Wembanyama, the first French player drafted number one in the NBA, wept and sought comfort from his mother.
The 20-year-old power forward scored a game-high 26 points, displaying flair and passion that signaled his potential as a future leader of the French team. "I'm proud of what we achieved here in France, in front of our fans," Wembanyama said. "I'll let it sink in and understand what just happened. I always try to support my team whenever needed. I'm prepared to make any sacrifice. I'm concerned for our opponents in a few years."
