Steph Curry brought his signature NBA flair to the international stage , sealing Team USA's Olympic gold medal victory over France with an iconic 3-pointer that will be remembered for years to come.
In the final 45 seconds of the game, with Team USA leading 95-87, Curry dribbled the ball at half-court, orchestrating the final play. As the shot clock wound down, Curry called for a screen from Kevin Durant , who slipped out of the pick, leaving Curry with a decision to make as French defenders Nic Batum and Guerschon Yabusele closed in.
Curry passed the ball to Durant, displaying his trademark movement before quickly repositioning himself on the right wing. He took three crossover dribbles, creating just enough space to launch a high-arcing 3-pointer over the outstretched arms of the double team. The ball soared through the air before dropping cleanly through the net, not even grazing the rim.
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"OH, that's a golden dagger!" the commentators yelled as the crowd erupted in cheers. Curry displayed his showmanship and celebrated with his signature "night night" gesture , a move that first gained popularity during the 2022 NBA Playoffs . The celebration is where Curry puts his hands together and mimics going to sleep, which has become synonymous with his clutch performances.
"The first time I did it was Game 3 in Denver," previously explained Curry to Boardroom . "It happened quick, and it was one of those situations where you were back in the playoff vibe. We had missed it for two years. I was just feeling amped being back on the stage," he continued. "I was coming off the bench, so I was even more hyped up, with even more energy off the injury, and all that."
The Warriors defeated Denver 3-1 in the series en route to defeating the Memphis Grizzles in the conference semifinals. They defeated the Dallas Mavericks in the conference finals before beating the Boston Celtics 4-2 to win the championship.
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In the gold medal game, Curry was at his best, finishing with 24 points on 8-of-14 shooting, including 8-for-13 from beyond the arc. He also contributed five assists and two steals in 30 minutes of play, showcasing his all-around game and leadership on the court.
Reflecting on the moment, Curry said, "At that point, your mind goes blank. You don't really care about the setting or the scenario or anything; it's just a shot. Thankfully, that one went in ... it's just rhythm and flow and confidence, and that was it."
The victory was especially sweet for Curry, who was competing in his first Olympics. "It wasn't easy, but damn, I'm excited," he said, soaking in the moment. "This is everything that I wanted it to be and more, so I'm excited."
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