The American Dream team won basketball gold for the 5th time in a row

A USA basketball team loaded with NBA superstars won the gold medal in Paris. In Saturday's Finals at Percy Arena, LeBron James, Stephen Curry and co. They won against France led by Victor Wembaniama with a score of 98:87 (49:41). It was already the fifth Olympic gold en suite for the United States, and Curry played a big role with a ferocious three-way performance. Serbia got the bronze after defeating the world champion Germany 93:83 (46:38).

In contrast to the semi-final against Serbia, the US showed no weakness early on and were always ahead in close exchanges. The Americans led at halftime, especially in the categories of three-pointers, defensive rebounds and quick points after winning the ball. Devin Booker scored 13 points in the first half.

The French were driven by Guerschon Yabusele and Wembanyama, but lost the ball several times and missed shots. After a strong run from the start of the third quarter, the US already held a 14-point lead ahead of Emmanuel Macron, but the French president saw his compatriots close the gap to less than ten points before the final period.

Curry Kala brings gold

In the end, James and Curry took command. France got within three points early, but Curry responded decisively with four three-pointers in the final 2:45. The game's top scorer was Wembaniama with 26 points (and seven rebounds), while Curry finished with 24 points and five assists.

That means last year's humiliation for the motherland of basketball is wiped out. At the World Cup in Manila, the U.S. boys lost in the semifinals against Germany. From the World Cup squad, only Anthony Edwards and reserve player Tyrese Halliburton were in Paris.

Kevin Durant is now the first male basketball player to win four Olympic gold medals. For James (39), Curry (36) and Durant (35), this could be the last major appearance on the national team. With three, James is now one Olympic gold medal ahead of legend Michael Jordan, with whom he is battling for status as the greatest basketball player in history. But the Los Angeles Lakers star came home from the Olympics in 2004 with bronze.