In an electrifying atmosphere at home, the French men’s basketball team edged out Germany with a 73-69 victory on Thursday, securing their spot in the Paris Olympics gold medal game.
Guerschon Yabusele led the French charge with 17 points, and Isaia Cordinier added 16, including two crucial free throws with seven seconds remaining that stifled Germany’s comeback attempt and clinched the win.
Victor Wembanyama, the first French player to be selected first overall in the NBA draft, expressed the unique energy and patriotism that representing his country brings. “This jersey gives us an energy unlike any other,” said the towering center. “The commitment to making the next pass and play for teammates has always been there.”
Having won silver in Tokyo three years ago, France now awaits the outcome of the game between the United States and Serbia. This matchup will be a rematch of the 2016 Rio Summer Games gold medal final, featuring LeBron James, a four-time NBA MVP, against Nikola Jokic, a three-time MVP.
After a defeat to Germany in their final group match, France was ready for a fight and delivered a thrilling performance that wasn’t decided until the last moments.
The French fans at Bercy Arena were initially silenced as Germany surged to a 12-2 lead, but the atmosphere quickly revived when France equalized by halftime at 33-33. Fueled by their passionate supporters, France gained a 56-50 lead in the third quarter and held a 70-65 advantage with just 40 seconds left.
Despite Franz Wagner’s late three-pointer narrowing the gap, France held firm, with Cordinier’s decisive free throws and a roaring celebration sealing their place in the final. Wembanyama reflected on the incredible fan experience, saying, “It was so moving, it was hard not to cry.”