The U.S. wheelchair basketball team continues to make waves at the 2024 Paris Paralympics, securing a commanding victory over France to advance to the semifinals. With an 82-47 win, the Americans demonstrated their dominance, fueled by the experience of veterans like Steve Serio and the energy of rising stars. This article explores the highlights of the match, Serio’s reflections on his final Paralympic Games, and what lies ahead for the team.
Steve Serio, a cornerstone of the U.S. Paralympic wheelchair basketball team, has enjoyed a storied career with two gold medals and a bronze across four Paralympic Games. As he prepares to conclude his Paralympic journey in Paris, Serio’s focus is not just on the medals but on the memories and relationships he’s built along the way.
“I’ve actually taken the time to appreciate living in the moment a little bit more than I have in the past,” Serio shared, highlighting the camaraderie and experiences off the court that he will cherish the most.
The Road to Victory: U.S. vs. France The U.S. team, already established as the top contender in Group B after an undefeated run, continued their streak with a decisive quarterfinal victory over France. Serio contributed 13 points with 43% shooting, but it was the younger players who stole the spotlight.
Jake Williams led the scoring with 23 points, closely followed by Brian Bell’s 20 points. Newcomer Jorge Salazar also made his mark with 13 points, signaling a bright future for the U.S. wheelchair basketball program.
The Paris Paralympic Atmosphere: A Once-in-a-Lifetime Experience
For Trevon Jenifer, a four-time Paralympian, the atmosphere in Paris was electric. Despite the lopsided score, the French crowd remained enthusiastic and supportive throughout the game, providing a memorable experience for the players.
“It gets you rocking and rolling,” Jenifer remarked, expressing his appreciation for the passionate French fans. Serio echoed these sentiments, calling the Paris crowd one of the most fun and engaging audiences he has ever played for.
With the semifinals on the horizon, the U.S. team is just one win away from competing for another gold medal. For Serio, these Games are especially poignant as they mark his final appearance on the Paralympic stage. He acknowledges the uniqueness of each Paralympic Games and is particularly grateful for the opportunity to share this one with his friends and family in the stands.
“Every [Paralympic] Games has their own personality,” Serio noted. “This is the chance for friends and family to be in the stands and share this moment with us, and we’re not taking it for granted.”
The U.S. wheelchair basketball team’s dominant performance against France sets the stage for an exciting semifinal match. As Steve Serio nears the end of his illustrious Paralympic career, the team looks to continue its winning streak and bring home another gold medal. With a blend of seasoned veterans and promising newcomers, the future of U.S. wheelchair basketball is brighter than ever.
