Team USA defeated Team France to win the gold medal on Saturday, claiming its fifth straight win in the Olympics. It was the second straight finale that the Americans bested the French in basketball, continuing their dominance over the international competition.
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It did take a complete team effort to win the gold as France never let them fully get away. It wasn’t until the final few minutes of the game that the Americans finally pulled ahead enough to seal the win.
Team France star Victor Wembanyama looked the part of the entire Olympics and he reminded everyone of the next generation of stars, not only on the international stage but within the NBA as well.
Wembanyama plays for the San Antonio Spurs and just completed a dominant rookie season. He posted 21.4 points, 10.6 rebounds, 3.9 assists, and 4.2 blocks per contest.
It was good enough for him to win Rookie of the Year and set the stage for himself moving forward. Wembanyama has been viewed as the next great player in basketball and after the defeat to Team USA, he issued a warning for the future.
Photo by Michael Reaves/Getty Images
Wembanyama was happy to receive the silver medal for France but said he is worried about opponents over the next few years.
“I’m learning, and I’m worried for the opponents in a couple of years.”
When asked if he meant within the NBA or on the international stage with France, Wembanyama held the same mindset for all involved.
Victor Wembanyama, with a silver medal around his neck:
“I’m learning, and I’m worried for the opponents in a couple of years.”
In FIBA or the NBA?
“Everywhere.”
— Mike Finger (@mikefinger) August 10, 2024
It’s only natural for Wembanyama to get better, especially since he was only a rookie this past season. But it’s a scary thought for opponents who had trouble trying to defend or score against him this season.
San Antonio signed veteran point guard Chris Paul to pair alongside Wembanyama this season, giving him a true floor general early in his career. While Paul’s playing days are close to an end, the knowledge that Wembanyama will receiver from him will be extremely beneficial.
The Spurs may not be a title contender this season but they will likely be much more competitive. With this mindset, Wembanyama seems to be coming for the rest of the world.
Sometimes losing can be the best motivator for a player and for this young star, the defeat to Team USA seems to have fueled a fire in him.
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