The 2024 Paris Olympics delivered one of the most electrifying basketball games in recent memory when France, led by Victor Wembanyama, faced off against Victor Wembanyama vs. Team USA in a group-stage thriller. The matchup had global fans on the edge of their seats, as Victor Wembanyama vs. Team USA dominance nearly toppled the star-studded Americans on home soil.
In this exclusive breakdown, we’ll analyze:
✔ How France pushed Team USA to the brink – Key plays, strategies, and turning points.
✔ Wembanyama’s historic performance – Was this his true “welcome to superstardom” moment?
✔ Team USA’s adjustments – How LeBron, Curry, and KD responded to the challenge.
✔ What this means for international basketball – Is the gap between the U.S. and the world closing?
Let’s dive into the game that almost changed Olympic history.
The Build-Up: France’s Home-Court Advantage
Victor Wembanyama vs. Team USA Rise as France’s Leader
At just 20 years old, Victor Wembanyama entered the Olympics as the face of French basketball. After a Rookie of the Year NBA season, expectations were sky-high. Fans wondered: Could he outplay Team USA’s legends on the biggest stage?
France’s roster also featured:
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Nicolas Batum (Veteran leadership)
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Evan Fournier (Elite shooting)
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Rudy Gobert (Defensive anchor)
This wasn’t just a game—it was a national pride showdown.
Game Breakdown: How France Nearly Shocked the World
First Half: Wemby Dominates Early
France came out aggressive, feeding Wembanyama in the post. His 7-foot-4 frame caused mismatches, and he dropped 15 first-half points, including two monster dunks over Anthony Davis.
Related: Victor Wembanyama’s Top 10 Plays of 2024
Team USA struggled with:
✔ Perimeter defense (Fournier hit 4 threes in the half)
✔ Turnovers (LeBron had 3 uncharacteristic giveaways)
Halftime Score: France 48, USA 45
Second Half: Team USA’s Adjustments
Coach Steve Kerr made critical changes:
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Switched KD onto Wembanyama – Slowed his scoring.
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Double-teamed Wemby in the post – Forced other players to beat them.
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Steph Curry’s third-quarter explosion – Hit 3 straight threes to regain the lead.
The Final Minutes: A Thrilling Finish
With 2 minutes left, France trailed 89-87 after a Wembanyama step-back three. But Team USA’s experience prevailed:
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LeBron’s clutch and-1 layup (92-87)
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KD’s game-sealing mid-range jumper (94-89)
Final Score: USA 95, France 89
Wembanyama’s Stat Line: A Superstar Was Born
Despite the loss, Wemby finished with:
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28 points (10/18 FG, 3/5 from three)
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12 rebounds
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4 blocks (including a viral chase-down on Anthony Edwards)
His performance drew comparisons to Dirk Nowitzki (2008) and Pau Gasol (2012)—international stars who carried their teams against Team USA.
Related: Greatest International NBA Players of All Time
Key Takeaways: What This Game Means for the Future Victor Wembanyama vs. Team USA
1. The U.S. Is Still the Favorite—But Not Unbeatable
France proved that with the right talent and strategy, Team USA can be challenged. Other nations (Germany, Serbia, Canada) will take notes.
2. Wembanyama Is a Future MVP Candidate
If there were any doubts about his superstar potential, this game erased them. Expect Spurs vs. Team USA debates for years.
3. Olympic Basketball Is Must-Watch TV
The NBA vs. International play rivalry is stronger than ever, especially with stars like Luka, Jokic, and Wemby leading their countries.
Final Thoughts: A Game for the History Books
While Victor Wembanyama vs. Team USA escaped with the win, France and Wembanyama earned worldwide respect. The 2028 Los Angeles Olympics could see an even bigger showdown—will Wemby get his revenge?
For more NBA and Olympic basketball coverage, visit NBA Newsz.
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