Yes, Team USA knew winning another gold would not be easy. But, an eighth-straight gold was more difficult than expected, as France challenged the United States for a full 40 minutes. Only when the final buzzer sounded on the 67-66 win was the Americans’ golden quest complete.
France established the terms of engagement in the opening quarter, with the hosts successfully forcing Team USA to play scrum-style basketball. Deflections, strips, blocks and boards, rather than points scored, defined the opening frame. France’s inability to defend without fouling, gifting the Americans 10 free throw attempts, helped the United States claim a 15-9 advantage after the first.
The second quarter saw much of the same. The Americans’ search for a big, momentum-swinging play that would sap the French’s spirit instead resulted in too many turnovers and no offensive rhythm. In the first half, Team USA coughed up the ball 13 times. France remained unfazed, playing with relentless energy even as point-blank scoring opportunities repeatedly rolled off the rim. With just over four minutes to go before the half, their persistence paid off as the home team tied it up at 20 all on a Valeriane Ayayi jumper. After a free throw from Breanna Stewart and beautiful paint score from A’ja…
