Former US President Barack Obama congratulated the USA men’s basketball team on Saturday after they prevailed against the host country, France, to claim the gold medal in the 2024 Paris Olympics.
Brimming with pride, Obama took to X to post a picture of him meeting the team last month before they flew for the tournament. He also gave shout-outs to the team’s de facto leaders, LeBron James, Stephen Curry, and Kevin Durant.
“Last month, I had a chance to meet with the men’s @usabasketball team before they went to Paris. So proud of them for bringing home the gold! Shout-out to legends @KingJames, @StephenCurry30, and @KDTrey5,” Obama said in his post.
Despite the host country’s valiant efforts, Team USA claimed their fifth-straight Olympic gold medal and their 17th overall after defeating France in the men’s basketball finals, 98-87.
Curry led Team USA that day with his 24 points—all from beyond the arc—along with a rebound, five assists, and two steals. His successful Olympic debut earned him his first Olympic gold medal.
Durant recorded 15 points, four rebounds and assists, and one each of a block and a steal, and finished the game as the first US men’s basketball player to win four Olympic gold medals.
James, who was eventually named the Olympics MVP for his dominating performance throughout the tournament, completed the game with a double-double, scoring 14 points, 10 assists, six rebounds, two steals, and a block. This is his third Olympic gold medal.
Barack Obama re-enacted an old Key & Peele sketch
Barack Obama seemingly had a “life imitating art” moment during his meeting with the USA men’s basketball team last month.
In a clip that has since circulated over social media, Obama can be seen going through a line of players, dapping them up and giving them hugs. Then, when he gets to the Caucasian members of the Olympic contingent, he simply gives them basic handshakes.
Fans immediately noticed and recognized the familiarity of the scene, as it almost exactly resembled an old yet still meme-worthy Key & Peele sketch. Whether it was unintentional or staged, the hilarity it caused online is undeniable.
The former president has been known for his comedic timing and skill. He masterfully used humor to humanize himself as he advanced his presidential agenda. This skill was evident in his late-night TV show guests and speeches during the White House correspondents’ dinners during his term.
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