American point guard Stephen Curry shared his thoughts on the team's hard-fought 95-91 (23:31, 20:23, 20:22, 32:15) victory over Serbia in the semi-finals.
“This is the most fun I’ve had in a long time. Something really special,” Curry said in his postgame press conference. “I wasn’t shooting the ball as well earlier, but my confidence never wavered that I was going to make the plays when it mattered most.”
Curry led the game in scoring, scoring 36 points while also contributing 8 rebounds and 2 assists. His masterful performance was the driving force behind the Americans' victory over a resilient Serbian team.
“Steph was just sensational tonight,” praised USA head coach Gregg Popovich. “When the game was on the line, he took his game to another level and led us to victory. That’s why he’s one of the greatest of all time.”
The hard-fought semi-final was a far cry from the United States' dominance in the group stage. Serbia, led by NBA stars Nikola Jokić and Bogdan Bogdanović, stormed out to build a double-digit lead in the first half.
“Serbia is an incredibly talented team, and they really hit us in the mouth early on,” Curry said. “But we weathered the storm, made some crucial adjustments, and I was able to find a rhythm and take control down the stretch.”
Curry's ability to create his own shot and make plays for his teammates proved to be the difference maker. His combination of precision shooting, ball handling and court vision overwhelmed the Serbian defense in the final quarter.
“Steph is just on another level,” marveled his American teammate Jayson Tatum. “The way he can take over a game, make everyone around him better — it’s really special to be a part of that. We’re going to need that same energy and execution against France if we’re going to bring home gold.”
The championship game will be a highly anticipated clash between Curry and his Golden State Warriors teammate Klay Thompson, who will be wearing the colors of France. It promises to be an epic battle between two of the greatest shooters and teammates in the NBA.
“It’s going to be an incredible game,” Curry said with a smile. “Klay and I know each other’s game inside and out, and we both want to win for our country more than anything. May the best man and the team win.”
Regardless of the outcome, Curry's performance at these Olympics only further cemented his legacy as one of the greatest players of all time. His ability to elevate his game on the biggest stage was a sight to behold.
“Steph Curry is a one-of-a-kind talent,” said former NBA player and current analyst Chauncey Billups. “The way he can single-handedly take control of a game, make the impossible seem routine — it’s truly impressive. These Olympics have only added to his legend and solidified his place among the all-time greats.”
With the gold medal on the line, Curry and the United States will look to cap their redemption tour with one last victory. After the disappointment of the 2019 FIBA World Cup, this Olympic run was an opportunity for the Americans to reclaim their place at the top of the international basketball landscape.
“We’ve come so far, and we’re not done yet,” Curry said. “This team has overcome a lot of adversity to get to this point, and we’re hungry to finish the job. Tomorrow is our chance to cement our legacy and bring home gold for our country.”
