Team USA secured a 98-87 victory over France in the menās basketball at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games final, claiming their fifth consecutive Olympic gold medal. The win, powered by stellar performances from Stephen Curry, LeBron James, and Kevin Durant, underscored the United Statesā dominance in Olympic basketball.
Joel Embiid faced an unfriendly reception from French fans during the medal ceremony. As Embiid stepped up to receive his gold medal, boos echoed through the Bercy Arena, but the NBA star didnāt stand aloneāLeBron James and his Team USA teammates were right there by his side.
Joel Embiid, who made headlines for choosing to represent Team USA over France, faced the biggest challenge of his Olympic journey in Parisānot just on the court, but from the stands. French fans, unhappy with his decision, booed Embiid throughout the tournament, and the animosity peaked during the medal ceremony.
Embiid addressed the controversy earlier, saying, āIt was a tough decision, but itās all about comfort level. Iāve known these guys (Team USA players) for a long time, and I just felt more comfortable with them than with the other side (France).ā Despite his explanation, the French fans made sure their displeasure was known.
Gold medalist Joel Embiid #11 of Team United States celebrates on the podium during the Menās basketball medal ceremony. Jamie Squire/Getty Images
LeBron James and Team USA stand with Embiid
As the boos rained down during the medal ceremony, LeBron James and the rest of Team USA didnāt hesitate to stand with Embiid, showing solidarity in the face of the crowdās reaction.
Despite the tension, Team USA continues to reign supreme in Olympic basketball, having now won 17 out of 20 possible gold medals. Their current streak of five straight golds is a testament to their enduring dominance, with their last Olympic defeat dating back to the 2004 Athens Games, where they fell to Argentina in the semifinals.
