Dennis Schröder and Franz Wagner have commented on the semi-final defeat against France. Steph Curry also almost single-handedly took the USA to the Olympic final. All the news in the update.
Germany plays for bronze
The German national team missed out on a place in the Olympic final. They suffered a narrow 69:73 defeat against host France. Serbia, with superstar Nikola Jokic, is now waiting in the match for bronze.
In a close game, Germany had the upper hand at the beginning, but France became increasingly stronger. “The French changed things around a lot and played with a completely different line-up. And of course it was clear that they were coming out much more aggressive,” said Franz Wagner after the game, adding: “They were very physical and got us out of our game a bit.”
Captain Dennis Schröder, however, remained focused after the match. “We have to keep our heads up now, especially because we still have a chance of winning bronze,” said the 30-year-old. The match for third place kicks off at 11 a.m. on Saturday.
Curry gala against Serbia
Steph Curry almost single-handedly led Team USA to the Olympic final. The Golden State Warriors star scored 36 points in the 95:91 win against Serbia, hitting a total of nine three-pointers. The second-best scorer was Joel Embiid, who contributed 19 points to the victory.
“It was an almost divine performance. God was definitely with him today,” Kevin Durant said of Curry. “I have rarely seen him as good as he was today. That was one of his best games ever.”
LeBron James added: “Steph Curry and Joel Embiid saved us today.”
The USA needed every point from the duo, and LeBron James’ team was behind until the fourth quarter. Shortly before the end of the game, however, the Americans stepped up a gear and moved into the final. France will be waiting there on Saturday at 9:30 p.m.
Christmas Games are set
The NBA has released the pairings for this year’s Christmas Games. According to Shams Charania of TheAthletic, this includes the Christmas debut of Victor Wembanyama, who will play for the Spurs against the New York Knicks.
Anthony Edwards is also celebrating his Christmas debut. The 22-year-old is playing with the Minnesota Timberwolves against the Dallas Mavericks. Steph Curry and LeBron James are also back in the game, and their teams will also face each other on Christmas Eve.
In addition, the rivals from Philadelphia and Boston will meet, and in the West there will also be a duel between the Phoenix Suns and Denver Nuggets.
The Christmas Games at a glance
Sources: SPOX, Sportschau, X, The Athletic
