In a thrilling Olympic basketball showdown in Villeneuve-d’Ascq, France, Dennis Schroder and Franz Wagner led Germany to an impressive 85-71 victory over a stunned French team, showcasing their skills and dominance on the court. The matchup between these two basketball powerhouses set the stage for an exciting quarterfinals clash as the tournament moves to Paris.
Schroder and Wagner were on fire, each scoring 26 points to propel Germany to a resounding win. Daniel Theis also contributed with seven points and eight rebounds, helping Germany secure an undefeated record atop Group B. France, on the other hand, suffered their first defeat of the group stage, unable to contain Wagner’s inside presence and Schroder’s sharpshooting from beyond the arc.
Victor Wembanyama tried to keep France in the game with 14 points and 12 rebounds, but it wasn’t enough to combat Germany’s offensive firepower. The French team struggled to handle Wagner in the paint and Schroder’s ability to penetrate their defense, leading to a 21-point deficit at halftime for the host country.
Despite a brief resurgence in the fourth quarter, with Wembanyama on the bench, France couldn’t overcome Germany’s lead. The Germans outscored France 24-9 in the second quarter, taking advantage of their opponent’s turnovers and defensive lapses. By the time Wembanyama returned to the game, Germany had built a commanding 19-point lead, sealing their victory in impressive fashion.
As the basketball world watches in anticipation, Germany’s triumph over France sets the stage for an exhilarating quarterfinals matchup in Paris, where these two titans of the sport will once again collide in pursuit of Olympic glory.