LeBron James’s third Olympic gold medal holds a special significance for the NBA’s all-time leading scorer. After a 12-year absence from the Games, James returned to lead Team USA to a 98-87 victory over France in the final on Saturday.
James’s performance was a testament to his enduring greatness. The 39-year-old contributed 14 points, 10 rebounds, and six assists, helping Team USA secure its fifth consecutive men’s basketball gold medal.
“It’s a big moment for USA basketball,” James said. “I’m just living in the moment. I feel super humbled that I can still play this game at a high level, play with 11 other great players, and a great coaching staff, and go out and do it for our country.”
The victory marked the second consecutive Olympic final in which the US defeated France. James’s return to the squad, along with the tournament debut of four-time NBA champion Stephen Curry, proved to be a formidable combination.
“It was great. I think you wouldn’t want it any other way to be able to face off against the host team. It was a great atmosphere,” James said.
James’s Olympic journey has been a remarkable one. He won bronze as a teenager at Athens 2004 and was part of the “Redeem Team” that took gold in Beijing four years later. He appeared again at London 2012 but had not played at the Games since.
“It’s the best one because it’s the one that’s right now,” James said, hinting that this could be his final Olympics. “I can’t see myself playing in LA (in 2028). Although I also didn’t see myself playing in Paris. But four years from now, I can’t see it.”
James’s legacy as one of the greatest basketball players of all time is further cemented by his Olympic achievements. His third gold medal is a testament to his unwavering commitment to excellence and his enduring love for the game.
