SPORTS WRAP
BY WILLIAM HATHAWAY, JR.
The latest Olympiad has come to a close, with some history, heartbreak, and a bit of controversy.
First, the overall medal count saw the United States lead all nations with 126 medals – 42 Bronze, 44 Silver, and 40 Gold. China tied the U.S. in the Gold count of 40, but was well behind in the overall count at just 91. The “Bronze” medal for most medals barely went to Great Britain at 65, with host nation France just behind at 64.
The French had two shots at Gold on the basketball court, but settled for Silver in each one. The men’s basketball title game saw the U.S. win their 5th in a row, winning 98-87. Stephen Curry went off in the first Olympics run of his career, scoring 24 points in the finale and nailing a dagger in the final minute that put the game away.
For the ladies, heartbreak was on the menu, as France lost 67-66 after their final basket was just inside the three point line. The U.S. women won their eighth straight Gold in the event. American superstar A’ja Wilson had 21 points and 10 rebounds in the clincher.
As for the history makers, Katie Ledecky continued her dominance in the pool, leaving Paris with two more Gold medals. Like Ledecky, Caeleb Dressel added two Gold to his career tally as well. On the pitch, a young but hungry U.S. women’s soccer team stunned everyone and took home the Gold, beating Brazil 1-0 in the finale.
Of course, the featured event is the Gymnastics portion. Simone Biles became the most decorated U.S. gymnast of all time, adding three more Gold to her resume along with a Silver. However, there was some controversy, as teammate Jordan Chiles initially finished fifth, but then finished third and with the Bronze on appeal, but then finished fifth again after the appeal was disallowed.
Also doing the Olympics and hip-hop no favors was the break dancing competition, which had people wondering why baseball and softball were excluded this time around.
Finally, the closing ceremonies featured a handoff to Los Angeles, who will host the 2028 Olympic Games.
In preseason football, the New York Giants opened up against the Detroit Lions at MetLife Stadium last week, winning the contest 14-3. Leading NY was Eric Gray with two touchdowns. Also, the Jets defeated the Washington Commanders 20-17.
Finally, the New Jersey high school football season is almost upon us. The Orange Tornadoes will soon be on the road to play West Orange in the old Northern Hills Conference battle.
