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USA Clinches Fifth Consecutive Olympic Basketball Gold with 98-87 Victory Over France

The United States men’s basketball team secured their fifth consecutive Olympic gold medal, defeating host nation France 98-87 in the final of the Paris 2024 Games.

Steph Curry led the American team with a stellar performance, scoring 24 points including eight three-pointers, three of which came in the crucial final moments of the fourth quarter.

The victory showcased the USA’s continued dominance in international basketball, with strong contributions from veteran players and rising stars alike.

LeBron James, in potentially his final Olympic appearance at age 39, added 14 points to the team’s tally. Kevin Durant and Devin Booker each contributed 15 points, underlining the team’s depth and firepower.

France, playing on home soil, put up a strong challenge led by Victor Wembanyama, who scored a game-high 26 points. However, the French team couldn’t contain the USA’s potent offense, particularly from beyond the arc, where the Americans shot an impressive 18-for-36.

The quarter-by-quarter score breakdown was as follows:

– Q1: France 15, USA 20

– Q2: France 26, USA 29

– Q3: France 25, USA 23

– Q4: France 21, USA 26

– Final: France 87, USA 98

This marks France’s fourth silver medal in Olympic men’s basketball, having previously lost to the USA in the gold medal games of 1948, 2000, 2020, and now 2024.

The victory not only cements the USA’s status in Olympic basketball but also potentially signals a changing of the guard.

As LeBron James concludes his Olympic career with three gold medals, attention turns to the next generation of NBA stars, including Anthony Edwards and Devin Booker, who are poised to lead the team into the 2028 Olympics.

Steph Curry’s clutch performance in the final minutes, hitting three consecutive three-pointers, exemplified his reputation as one of basketball’s greatest shooters and secured the victory for the United States.

This gold medal adds another chapter to the USA’s storied Olympic basketball history, maintaining their position at the pinnacle of the sport on the international stage.

Celine Dion Warns Trump: “We’ll Have a ‘Titanic’ Problem If You Use My Song Again!”

Las Vegas, NV – Celine Dion has issued a strong warning to former President Donald Trump after learning that her iconic song “My Heart Will Go On” was used in a recent video at one of his rallies.

Dion, who is known for her powerful ballads and legendary performances, made it clear that she does not want her music associated with Trump’s political events.

According to TMZ, the song choice has left many scratching their heads, especially since Trump is known for making some rather unconventional picks for his pre-speech playlists.

Observers on social media noted that while Trump’s playlist included tracks from “The Lion King” and other standard choices, Dion’s video appearance was unexpected.

The use of Dion’s music in the rally has sparked discussions online, with many questioning the context and appropriateness of the song. While

Trump has a history of incorporating celebrity cameos—whether intentional or not—into his events, this one seems to have struck a particularly discordant note.

Meanwhile, in contrast to Trump’s embrace of Hollywood, Vice President Kamala Harris and Minnesota Governor Tim Walz are reportedly keeping their distance from the entertainment industry.

As reported by TMZ, the Harris/Walz campaign is deliberately limiting celebrity involvement at Democratic National Convention (DNC) events, aiming to avoid the perception of the event as a “liberal Hollywood affair.” However, sources indicate that while there will be fewer celebrity appearances, they have not been entirely excluded.

Celine Dion’s sharp response serves as a reminder of the potential backlash political figures can face when using artists’ work without consent, especially when those artists strongly oppose the message or cause it’s being used to promote.

Brazil Plane Crash: Recovery of Bodies Underway After Crash Near Sao Paulo Kills 62 Passengers

Sao Paulo, Brazil – Brazilian civil defense teams have begun the recovery of bodies from the wreckage of a plane that crashed in the state of Sao Paulo on Friday, resulting in the deaths of all 62 people on board.

The ill-fated VoePass flight 2283 had departed from Cascavel, in the state of Paraná, shortly before noon, en route to Sao Paulo-Guarulhos International Airport.

The ATR-72 aircraft lost signal around 1:22 pm local time and crashed in Vinhedo, approximately 50 miles northwest of Sao Paulo city.

The aircraft was piloted by Captain Danilo Santos Romano, who had been with VoePass since 2022. Brazilian news outlet Globo TV News reported that the ATR-72 went down while Romano was at the controls.

The three other crew members on board included co-pilot Humberto de Campos Alencar e Silva, 61, and flight attendant Débora Soper Avila, 29, according to details from the flight’s manifest.

Brazilian authorities are currently investigating the cause of the crash and have successfully recovered the aircraft’s black box, which is expected to provide crucial data in determining the events leading up to the disaster.

Preliminary reports from VoePass suggest that icing may have been a factor in the crash, although further analysis is required.

As the investigation continues, the focus remains on recovering the bodies and providing answers to the families of those who lost their lives in this tragic accident.

Ukraine Blows Up Russian Gas Rig in Black Sea, Killing 40 Soldiers and Destroying Recon HQ in Massive Explosion

Kyiv, Ukraine – Ukraine has delivered another significant blow to Russian forces by targeting a gas rig in the Black Sea, reportedly killing 40 soldiers in a devastating explosion.

The rig, which was reportedly packed with “reconnaissance equipment” supporting Russia’s war efforts, was obliterated by the Ukrainian navy, according to Ukrainian media reports.

Dramatic footage captured the moment a massive fireball erupted from the rig, marking the destruction of the Russian headquarters after the strike.

The video also showed subsequent explosions as the gas reserves ignited, sending thick plumes of black smoke into the sky over the Dnipro River.

Kyiv announced the successful strike on the platform, claiming that up to 40 Russian military personnel were on board at the time of the attack.

Ukrainian officials stated that all those stationed on the rig are believed to have perished in the explosion.

The targeted gas rig was reportedly under Russian control, though it was originally operated by the Ukrainian company Chornomornaftogaz.

Ukrainian forces have been increasingly active in the Black Sea, seeking to reclaim and neutralize key assets used by Russian forces in their ongoing military campaign.

While the specific weapon used in the strike has not been confirmed, it highlights Ukraine’s growing capabilities in conducting precision attacks against Russian military infrastructure.

Russian sources have disputed some details of the attack, claiming that two separate rigs, rather than one, were set alight overnight.

The situation remains fluid, with ongoing assessments of the damage and casualties.

In related developments, it was also reported that Ukraine successfully downed a Russian Ka-52 Alligator attack helicopter during the day’s operations.

This attack comes amid reports of increasing frustration from Russian President Vladimir Putin, who is reportedly “seething” over the recent Ukrainian blitz that has forced Russian troops to reinforce positions near Kursk.

The strike on the gas rig and other recent Ukrainian advances are seen as a “slap in the face” for Putin, as Russia’s military struggles to maintain its momentum in the conflict.

Benjamin of US Outrun Tebogo of Botswana to Win Men’s 4×400 Relay at Paris Olympics

Paris, France – Rai Benjamin anchored the United States to a thrilling victory in the men’s 4×400-meter relay at the Paris Olympics on Saturday night, holding off a fierce challenge from Botswana’s Letsile Tebogo. The American team not only secured the gold medal but also set an Olympic record with their outstanding performance.

Benjamin, who earlier in the Games claimed gold in the 400-meter hurdles, showcased his versatility and speed once again. He prevented 200-meter champion Tebogo from adding another title to his name, in what was one of the most anticipated events of the evening.

The spotlight had been on Tebogo, the 21-year-old sprinting prodigy, after his sensational win in the 200 meters on Thursday, where he edged out American Kenny Bednarek, who took silver, and Noah Lyles, who tested positive for COVID-19, who secured the bronze.

The U.S. relay team, consisting of Christopher Bailey, Vernon Norwood, Bryce Deadmon, and Rai Benjamin, completed the race in an impressive 2 minutes, 54.43 seconds. This time was nearly a second faster than the American team’s performance at the 2008 Beijing Olympics and just 0.14 seconds shy of the world record set by the U.S. in 1993.

Botswana, with a team that included Tebogo along with Bayapo Ndori, Busang Collen Kebinatshipi, and Anthony Pesela, finished a close second, just a tenth of a second behind the Americans.

Great Britain secured the bronze medal with a time of 2:55.83, rounding out the podium in what was a fiercely competitive race.

Rapper Travis Scott Released by Paris Police Without Charge

Paris, France – Grammy-nominated American hip hop star Travis Scott has been released from police custody in Paris without facing any charges, according to a statement from his representative on Saturday.

Scott, 33, was arrested on Friday at the luxurious Georges V Hotel in Paris following an altercation with a security guard. “Travis Scott has been released with no charges,” his representative confirmed in an email sent to Reuters. The Paris prosecutor’s office also verified via email that Scott had been released without any charges.

This incident follows a previous arrest in June, when Scott was detained in the United States on charges of disorderly intoxication and trespassing after a disturbance on a yacht in Miami Beach, Florida. Known for hits like “Sicko Mode,” Scott has been nominated for 10 Grammy Awards throughout his career.

Ethnic Armed Group Suspected in Deaths of 150 Rohingya in Myanmar Amid Escalating Violence

Rakhine State, Myanmar – At least 150 civilians from Myanmar’s Muslim Rohingya minority are feared to have been killed this week in an artillery and drone attack in the western state of Rakhine. Survivors of the assault believe it was carried out by a major force involved in resisting Myanmar’s military rule.

The Arakan Army, an ethnic armed group based in Rakhine State, has denied responsibility for the attack, which reportedly targeted Rohingya civilians attempting to flee intense fighting in Maungdaw town by crossing the Naf River into Bangladesh.

According to a statement released on Friday by Doctors Without Borders, an international medical assistance organization, there has been a sharp increase in Rohingya patients with violence-related injuries crossing into Bangladesh over the past week. The organization reported that some survivors described seeing people bombed while trying to escape by boat, with bodies of the dead scattered along the riverbanks.

Two individuals who claimed to have survived the attack, and who spoke to the Associated Press, blamed the Arakan Army for the assault, echoing accusations made by Rohingya activists and Myanmar’s military government. If confirmed, this would be one of the deadliest incidents involving civilians in Myanmar’s ongoing civil conflict.

Gruesome videos have surfaced on social media, purportedly showing dozens of bodies, including those of women and children, lying along a road near the riverside. However, due to severe restrictions on communication and movement in the conflict zone, verifying the authenticity of these videos or the details of the attack has proven difficult.

The ongoing conflict in Rakhine has intensified fears of renewed and organized violence against the Rohingya, a minority group that has faced severe persecution in Myanmar. Ethnic minority guerrillas, including the Arakan Army, have been engaged in a bitter struggle against Myanmar’s military government since the military seized power in a coup in 2021, ousting the democratically elected government of Aung San Suu Kyi.

As violence escalates in Rakhine, the international community is increasingly concerned about the safety and human rights of the Rohingya, who continue to be caught in the crossfire of Myanmar’s civil war.

apnews.com

USWNT Clinches Fifth Olympic Gold Medal with 1-0 Victory Over Brazil in Paris 2024 Final

The United States Women’s National Team (USWNT) secured their fifth Olympic gold medal in women’s soccer, defeating Brazil 1-0 in the final match of the Paris 2024 Games. Mallory Swanson’s goal in the 57th minute of the second half proved decisive at Parc des Princes.

This victory marks the USWNT’s first gold medal since the 2012 London Olympics and concludes an undefeated run through the tournament under new coach Emma Hayes. Goalkeeper Alyssa Naeher played a crucial role, making a one-handed save on Adriana’s header in stoppage time to preserve the win.

For Brazil and their star player Marta, the loss represents another missed opportunity at Olympic glory. The six-time world player of the year has yet to win a Women’s World Cup or an Olympic gold medal in what is expected to be her final major international tournament.

This victory continues the USWNT’s dominance over Brazil in Olympic finals, marking their third such win following successes in Athens 2004 and Beijing 2008. Brazil has never finished better than silver in Olympic women’s soccer.

The gold medal performance represents a significant improvement for the US team, who settled for bronze in Tokyo 2020 and were eliminated in the quarterfinals at the 2016 Rio de Janeiro Games.

Swanson’s winning goal came in her 100th appearance for the national team, adding personal significance to the historic victory. Notable figures in attendance included actor Tom Cruise and former US soccer star Megan Rapinoe.

This gold medal adds to the USWNT’s impressive Olympic record, which began with their victory in the inaugural women’s soccer tournament at the 1996 Atlanta Games.

The match, played before a packed stadium in Paris, showcased the continued global appeal of women’s soccer and the USWNT’s enduring success on the international stage.

Kagame Set for Grand Swearing-In Ceremony on Sunday

Kigali, Rwanda – Rwandan President Paul Kagame is scheduled to be inaugurated on Sunday following his landslide victory in the recent presidential election. This event not only marks Kagame’s continued leadership but also reflects Rwanda’s distinctive political landscape and the current atmosphere in the country.

Here’s what you need to know about the inauguration, what to expect, and the international dignitaries attending.

The inauguration ceremony will take place at the Amahoro National Stadium in Kigali, a venue that has been meticulously prepared for this significant occasion. Thousands of Rwandans, including government officials, members of civil society, and ordinary citizens, are expected to gather to witness the swearing-in of President Kagame.

The day will be marked by a blend of military parades, cultural performances, and speeches highlighting Rwanda’s achievements under Kagame’s leadership. His inaugural address is anticipated to emphasize themes of national unity, continued development, and a vision for Rwanda’s future.

The ceremony will also serve as a platform to showcase Rwanda’s progress across various sectors, including security, economic growth, and governance. The inauguration has garnered attention from across the African continent and beyond, with several heads of state and government leaders either already in Rwanda or expected to arrive shortly.

Among those already in Kigali are former Kenyan President Uhuru Kenyatta, a close ally of Kagame, and President Filipe Nyusi of Mozambique. Their early arrival underscores the importance of this event in the regional political landscape.

Kagame’s inauguration is not just a celebration of his electoral success, but also a moment to reflect on Rwanda’s journey and the path it will continue to forge under his leadership.

nilepost.co.ug

Uganda: Eight Dead, 14 Rescued in Kitezi Landfill Tragedy

Kampala, Uganda – A tragic incident at the Kitezi Landfill in Kampala has left eight people dead and 14 others rescued, following a devastating collapse early on Saturday. The tragedy has prompted an extensive rescue operation involving multiple government agencies and local community members.

State Minister for Disaster Preparedness, Relief, and Refugees, Ms. Lilian Aber, was among the officials who visited the site to assess the situation. She expressed her deep condolences to the families affected by the disaster, stating, “We are committed to working relentlessly alongside emergency response teams to ensure that we move faster and rescue our people.”

The Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA), in coordination with the Uganda Police, Ministry of Works and Transport, Ministry of Disaster Preparedness, the Red Cross, and local residents, managed to evacuate 14 survivors. The rescued individuals were transported to Mulago and St. Steven hospitals for urgent medical care.

In a statement, the KCCA confirmed the fatalities and ongoing efforts: “With deep sadness, we confirm that eight people have been found dead, including six adults and two children. The rescue operation is ongoing, and we will provide updates as new information becomes available.

Among the deceased were six adults and two children. The cause of the incident has not yet been determined, but investigations are currently underway.

Authorities are also investigating a structural failure in the waste mass at the Kitezi Landfill, which is believed to have triggered the collapse of a section of the landfill, impacting nearby homes and livestock. Damage assessments are ongoing, and the area has been cordoned off to prevent further incidents.

“This is a developing story,” the KCCA stated, assuring the public that every effort is being taken to secure the area and ensure community safety. The KCCA and other involved agencies are working to prevent any future tragedies and provide support to those affected by this disaster.

nilepost.co.ug