In a thrilling conclusion to the Paris Olympics, Germany clinched the gold medal in women's 3×3 basketball by edging out Spain with a final score of 17-16. The decisive moment came when Sonja Greinacher sank a crucial two-pointer with just 30 seconds remaining, securing Germany's victory.
The game was intensely competitive, with Spain's Juana Camilion igniting a 3-1 run that put her team ahead 15-13 with two minutes left on the clock. However, Germany's Elisa Mevius and Marie Reichert responded with back-to-back baskets, leveling the score at 15 and setting the stage for a dramatic finish.
With about 90 seconds left, Greinacher's long-range shot gave Germany a two-point lead. Spain had a chance to tie the game in the final seconds when Camilion scored again, bringing the score to 17-16. Despite a last-ditch effort by Spain's Gracia Alonso, her shot fell short, sealing the gold for Germany.
The atmosphere was electric, with NBA Hall of Famer Dirk Nowitzki cheering on the German team. King Felipe and Hall of Famer Pau Gasol also supported the Spanish side, adding to the high-stakes environment. After Greinacher's game-winning shot, Nowitzki celebrated by raising his arms high in jubilation.
Spain's Camilion finished the game with six points, while Alonso contributed five. On the other podium step, Hailey Van Lith led the defending champions USA to a bronze medal with six points in their 16-13 victory over Canada. Notably, the USA team turned their performance around by winning five straight games after an initial 0-3 start, culminating in a semifinal appearance before falling to Spain in overtime earlier in the week.
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Germany beat Spain to win women's 3×3 basketball gold at Paris Games
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