Paris (dpa) – The German 3×3 basketball team achieved a historic milestone at the 2024 Paris Olympics, clinching their first-ever Olympic gold medal in basketball.
The quartet of Svenja Brunckhorst, Sonja Greinacher, Elisa Mevius, and Marie Reichert delivered a thrilling performance in the final, narrowly defeating Spain 17-16 at the Place de la Concorde, a venue known for its electrifying atmosphere.
The final saw a dramatic conclusion, with Germany emerging victorious in a closely contested match that captivated spectators and brought an end to Spain’s hopes of gold.
The result was a testament to Germany’s rapid rise in 3×3 basketball, a format that has only been part of the Olympic program since 2021. The sport was notably absent from the Tokyo Games, making this victory even more significant.
German basketball legend Dirk Nowitzki and Spain’s King Felipe VI were among the distinguished guests who witnessed the historic moment from the front row.
Nowitzki, a towering figure in the sport, was seen passionately cheering for the German team, reflecting the immense pride and excitement surrounding the victory.
The atmosphere at Place de la Concorde was electric, with the crowd fully immersed in the high-stakes final.
The German team’s triumph was even more impressive considering they entered the tournament as underdogs. With heavyweights like the USA and Canada in the competition, few expected Germany to claim gold.
However, the team’s exceptional performance and determination defied expectations, culminating in their narrow win over Spain. Their journey to the top included overcoming formidable opponents and demonstrating remarkable skill and teamwork throughout the tournament.
The presence of the Wagner brothers, Franz and Moritz, from the men’s national team, and several members of the women’s national team, further highlighted the significance of the victory. Their support from the stands underscored the unity and enthusiasm within the German basketball community.
The 3×3 basketball format, which features a fast-paced and compact version of the traditional game, has gained increasing popularity since its Olympic debut.
The format emphasizes quick play and high-scoring games, offering a dynamic and engaging spectator experience. Germany’s success in this format marks a significant achievement and sets a precedent for future Olympic tournaments.
This gold medal win not only represents a historic achievement for German basketball but also signals the team’s entry into the world-class category of the sport.
The victory is expected to inspire and elevate the profile of 3×3 basketball in Germany, encouraging more players to engage with the sport and aiming for success on the global stage.
As the German 3×3 team basks in their Olympic glory, their remarkable journey and the excitement of their victory will undoubtedly resonate throughout the sport’s community, marking a new chapter in Germany’s basketball history.