Team USA has reclaimed their title as world champions! In a commanding performance during the gold medal game, the American men’s basketball team jumped out to an early lead against France and never looked back. The victory was powered by the star trio of LeBron James, Kevin Durant, and Stephen Curry, who collectively overwhelmed the French squad.
As the celebrations began, Durant took to social media, using the moment to respond to comments made by another NBA player. After Germany’s loss to Serbia in the bronze-medal game, Dennis Schroder had remarked, “European basketball is no entertainment, it’s straight IQ basketball. Straight coaching.”
Dennis Schroder on why European basketball style provides a significant advantage to challenge Team USA:
'European basketball is no entertainment, it's straight IQ basketball. Straight coaching.' 🗣️ #Paris2024 pic.twitter.com/9qTO58DFSx
— BasketNews (@BasketNews_com) August 10, 2024
Durant, not one to shy away from a challenge, seized the opportunity to respond with a pointed caption after Team USA secured their fifth consecutive Olympic gold.
ENTERTAINMENT & IQ pic.twitter.com/2e9dopdrJi
— Kevin Durant (@KDTrey5) August 11, 2024
Durant, who made his first start in these Olympics against France, delivered a solid performance, contributing 15 points on 5-of-12 shooting, including three three-pointers. While typically the focal point of the offense, Durant played a more supporting role to James and Curry in this matchup.
It was Curry who stole the spotlight in the Olympics, continuing his stellar play from the previous game against Serbia. He lit up the court with 24 points, sinking eight three-pointers against France. In a moment that was all too familiar to NBA fans, Curry drained a seemingly impossible three-pointer in the fourth quarter, effectively sealing the victory.
As the dust settles on this Olympic campaign, questions arise about Durant’s future in international play. By the time the 2028 LA Olympics arrive, Durant will be 39 years old. If this is indeed his final Olympic appearance, he will retire as one of the most decorated players in Olympic history. With four gold medals and a scoring record that stands unmatched, Durant’s legacy on the international stage is unparalleled.
