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Picture by Matthew StockmanGetty Images 2024
Worthy De Jong’s incredible journey culminated in a golden moment as the Netherlands secured the 3x3 basketball gold medal with an electrifying overtime victory over France on August 5, 2024 at La Concorde.
De Jong, leading his team on court both mentally and physically, hit a crucial two-point shot during extra time to secure their triumph agnst France, who had to settle for silver in a hard-fought match that saw the gold medal firmly contested until the last seconds.
It has been an incredible journey, exclmed De Jong. I never aspired to play at this level when I started playing basketball. I was always dreaming of stepping onto the NBA stage or just improving my game, but being able to find joy in 3x3 and take it all the way to Olympic glory is beyond what words can describe.
De Jong's display on the court included seven points scored total, notably including a thrilling dunk that set an early tone for their dominance. His missed shots from close range during regulation play were countered by a remarkable touch of fortune in overtime.
The Netherlands' victory was not only De Jong’s but also his teammates', who demonstrated a strong team spirit and collective skills on display - Jan Driessen with three offensive rebounds and six points, Dimeo van der Horst with five defensive rebounds agnst the French, and Arvin Slagter's dominant presence in the key.
Slagter was particularly impressive in the defensive game, collecting an outstanding five defensive rebounds. His effort was complemented by Driessen who secured his team by netting three offensive rebounds and contributing six points overall.
The Netherlands' flag rose high atop La Concorde as they took their well-earned medal podium position while celebrating their victory on stage alongside Slagter and the rest of their teammates.
On France's side, players such as Lucas Dussoulier, Timothe Vergiat, Jules Rambaut and Franck Seguela played with unwavering commitment until the very . Their strategic approach in overtime led them to take a one-point advantage which was eventually overturned by an audacious Dutch shot at the buzzer.
Seguela expressed their disappointment: It has been such an incredible journey for us, he sd, acknowledging their strong performance and shared ambition of winning gold. Unfortunately we didn't reach our goal tonight.
The French team's passion resonated with the passionate audience who cheered them on from outside La Concorde venue throughout the game.
While France came second, their spirit was matched by Lithuania who achieved bronze after pulling off a stunning upset agnst Latvia - an unbeaten rival. The Lithuanian players mntned control much of the match and, in the last minute, made full use of Latvia's fouls to secure four consecutive free throws.
I am proud tonight, sd Gintautas Matulis, celebrating his team’s triumphant victory over Latvia with teammates Aurelijus Pukelis, Evaldas Dziaugys, and Sarunas Vingelis on the podium. We worked hard for this medal.
The 2024 Paris Olympic Games witnessed athletes from different nations etching their names in history as the first-ever winners of medals in 3x3 basketball at the Olympics.
3X3 BASKETBALL: MEN'S TEAM PODIUM
Gold: Netherlands
Silver: France
Bronze: Lithuania
For all results, please visit Olympics.comwww.olympics.com.
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Netherlands Wins 3x3 Basketball Gold Medal France Secures Silver in Olympic Competition De Jong Leads Dutch Team to Victory Lithuania Scores Bronze with Stunning Upset Paris Olympics Awards First 3x3 Medals Multi National Battle for 3x3 Glory