Introduction: Paris Olympics

PARIS, France – The U.S. women’s basketball team
defeated France 67-66 on Sunday to
win its eighth straight Olympic gold medal.

France led by 10 points in the second half
and was on the verge of ending America’s
historic streak of winning gold at every

Olympic Games since 1996.
“History doesn’t get you another [gold medal],
” said Team USA’s Diana Taurasi. “You have to earn it.

All these teams are open, everyone spends money,
invests money in their team. This can be seen in the tournament. Any team can win every night.”

Track cycling

According to CBS News, American Jennifer Valente defended her gold medal in the women’s omnium competition with 144 points. With her victory, the United States won three gold medals and six overall, becoming the most successful Olympian in Olympic cycling in 40 years, CBS News reported. Kristen Faulkner won two more gold medals for the United States, including in the road race.

“It was a really long race week,” Valente said. “I qualified for the (team pursuit) a week ago and we did well. So I’m very happy to make it to the last day.”

Women’s volleyball

The United States women’s volleyball team failed to defend its gold medal in Tokyo, which won 25-18, 25-20, 25-17 against Italy in Sunday’s final, USA Today reported.

According to USA Today, the Americans had to overcome injuries and inconsistent play to win the gold medal.

“They’re the best team in the world right now,” United States captain Jordyn Poulter said. “I don’t think we can do it.”

Graduation ceremony

The Olympics ended on Sunday with the closing ceremony in Paris, where actor Tom Cruise turned heads as he was ejected from the roof of the Stade de France, ABC News reported. Cruise then received the Olympic flag from Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass and gymnastics legend Simone Biles. The 2028 Summer Games will take place in Los Angeles.