USA to face France in dream Olympic final after defeating Serbia

The United States maintained its aspirations for gold with an exhilarating fourth-quarter comeback, overcoming a determined Serbia 95-91 on Thursday, thereby securing a place in the men's basketball gold medal final at the Paris Olympics against France.

For a significant portion of the match, the United States trailed by double digits and entered the final quarter facing a 76-63 deficit, which cast doubt on their pursuit of a fifth consecutive gold medal.

However, NBA luminaries LeBron James and Stephen Curry stepped up, igniting the enthusiasm of a packed Bercy Arena as they orchestrated a remarkable turnaround.

This victory not only fulfilled the expectations of basketball enthusiasts but also set the stage for a highly anticipated clash against a motivated France on Saturday, in what promises to be a fervent atmosphere at the Bercy Arena.

France, energized by a passionate home crowd, triumphed in a nail-biting 73-69 contest against Germany.

Guerschon Yabusele led the French team with 17 points, while Isaia Cordinier contributed 16 points, including two crucial free throws with just seven seconds remaining, which helped to thwart a late German resurgence and secure the win.

Victor Wembanyama, the first French player selected first overall in the NBA draft, remarked, "The national team and this jersey provide us with a unique energy that is unparalleled."

He added, "The intensity we have displayed in our last two games reflects our patriotism. We cherish our jersey and our country." The towering center emphasized, "The commitment to sacrifice for the team and the determination to make the next pass or play for a teammate has always been present."

Energized by a vibrant home crowd, a dynamic French team triumphed over Germany with a score of 73-69 in a thrilling contest.

Guerschon Yabusele spearheaded the effort with 17 points, while Isaia Cordinier contributed 16 points, including two crucial free throws with just seven seconds remaining, which stifled Germany's late-game resurgence and secured the win.

Victor Wembanyama, the first French player selected first overall in the NBA draft, remarked, "The national team and this jersey provide us with a unique energy that is unparalleled."

He added, "The intensity we have displayed in the last two games is palpable. We all feel a sense of patriotism. Our love for our jersey and our country is evident," stated the towering center, who stands at 2.2 meters (7 feet, 3 inches).

"The commitment to sacrifice for the team and the determination to make the next pass or play for a teammate has always been present."

Following a defeat to Germany in their last group match, France entered the game ready for a fierce contest, which unfolded in a tightly contested battle that remained undecided until the closing moments.

French supporters arrived eager to celebrate, but Germany quickly dampened the mood by establishing a 12-2 lead.

However, the atmosphere shifted as France began to rally, with the crowd erupting in a thunderous cheer when Wembanyama scored the final basket of the half, leaving the teams tied at 33-33 at halftime.

With the crowd's energy propelling them forward, France surged ahead to a 56-50 lead by the end of the third quarter and maintained a 70-65 advantage with only 40 seconds left on the clock.

Franz Wagner momentarily silenced the crowd with a long-range three-pointer, narrowing France's lead to just two points, leaving the audience in suspense.

Nevertheless, France held firm. Cordinier's composed free throws reignited the crowd's enthusiasm, culminating in a jubilant celebration as the final seconds elapsed, with players embracing and dancing amidst the roaring approval of the fans.