The Changing Landscape of U.S. Men’s Basketball

In the past, the United States men’s basketball team had a reputation for overwhelming their opponents with sheer talent. While they may have occasionally lost a game, it was often attributed to factors like bad luck, chemistry issues, or even indifference. However, in recent years, the landscape of international basketball has changed, and this shift was evident in the gold medal game against France.

Unlike previous years, the Americans couldn’t rely solely on their talent to overpower the French team. They had to fight tooth and nail, relying on gritty defense, forcing turnovers, and making clutch shots. The key to their victory was undoubtedly Kevin Durant, who showcased his skills on the court by scoring 29 points and leading the team to an 87-82 victory.

While the U.S. still possesses an advantage in athleticism, it is no longer as substantial as it once was. The skill gap has narrowed, and teams from around the world have closed the size advantage as well. In the game against France, the French team outrebounded the U.S. 41-34 and utilized mismatches inside with the help of 7’2″ Rudy Gobert, a formidable NBA player known for his defensive prowess.

Although Gobert struggled at the free-throw line, shooting 46%, his presence on the court proved effective for France. The strategic approach kept them in the game and made it difficult for the U.S. to gain momentum. However, the Americans managed to overcome these challenges. Despite their size disadvantage, they maintained excellent defense throughout the game. They harassed shooters, leading to poor shooting percentages, particularly from 3-point range. They pestered NBA regulars Evan Fournier and Nicolas Batum into a combined 7-for-20 from the field and 3-for-13 from beyond the arc. Additionally, they disrupted passing lanes, accumulating eight steals and causing 18 turnovers. Their defensive efforts also included five blocks, three of which were credited to Bam Adebayo, while France failed to register a single block.

Yet, it was Durant who truly shone throughout the game. When the U.S. struggled initially, Durant stepped up, contributing 12 of the team’s first 18 points. While starting guards Devin Booker and Damian Lillard struggled, shooting a combined 0-for-7 in the first half, Durant amassed an impressive 21 points on 7-for-14 shooting. Even when France mounted a late comeback and closed the game to within three points, Durant remained composed. U.S. coach Gregg Popovich entrusted Durant with the final plays, and he delivered, sinking both free throws to secure the victory.

The French team undoubtedly believed they had the strategy and talent to win. They had previously overcome a late deficit and defeated the U.S. in their first game in Tokyo, fueling their confidence. However, the U.S. players were fully aware of the strength of their competition. They understood that the playing field had leveled, and the talent gap had narrowed. The days of effortless victories were long gone, but that did not diminish their satisfaction with the gold medal victory over France.

“We just fought through everything … I’m glad we finished the job,” Durant expressed after the game. “France is a good team. They don’t quit. They play hard every minute they’re on the floor. They’re a big team, so it presented a nice challenge for us. But we wanted them again.”

The evolution of international basketball does not signify a step back for the U.S.; instead, it marks a step up for the world. The competition has intensified, making the game more exciting and challenging. The victory over France, despite not being a dominant performance, is all the more satisfying because of the level playing field. The U.S. men’s basketball team may no longer rely solely on their talent, but their ability to adapt, persevere, and emerge victorious is a testament to their resilience and greatness.

For the latest news on the NBA and Summer Olympics, stay updated by registering for alerts on the FOX Sports app.