At the 2024 Paris Olympics, Jackie Young and Kelsey Plum achieved a remarkable feat, cementing their legacy in basketball history. They became the only players to secure gold medals in both 3×3 and 5×5 basketball, a milestone highlighted by Sporting News.
Basketball has been a part of the Olympic program since 1936. In recent years, the introduction of 3×3 basketball—a fast-paced, half-court version of the game—has added a new layer of excitement to the sport. During the Tokyo 2020 Games, Team USA’s women’s 3×3 team, featuring WNBA stars Stephanie Dolson, Alisha Gray, Kelsey Plum, and Jackie Young, won the inaugural gold medal in this format. The 2024 Paris Olympics marked the continuation of their remarkable journey.
From 3×3 Success to 5×5 Glory
Although Plum, Young, and their 3×3 teammates gave their all to secure another gold for the USA, they fell short in Paris. Germany claimed the gold, Spain took silver, and the U.S. settled for a bronze medal—an impressive result considering it was only the second Olympic appearance for 3×3 basketball. But the story didn’t end there.
The 5×5 team, featuring the dynamic Las Vegas Aces duo of Plum and Young, delivered a thrilling performance. In a nail-biting gold medal match against France, Team USA emerged victorious with a 67-66 win, overcoming a daunting 10-point deficit in the third quarter.
Young was instrumental in the knockout rounds, consistently showcasing her talent, even though she only scored two points in the final game. Her tournament average of 9.5 points per game, along with several standout performances, was crucial to the team’s success.
The Dynamic Aces Shine in Paris
The historic achievement of winning dual gold medals in both 3×3 and 5×5 basketball underscores the versatility and excellence of Plum and Young. While Japanese player Stephanie Mawuli has competed in both formats, no other athlete has won gold in both disciplines.
As seasoned stars of the Las Vegas Aces, Plum and Young are no strangers to high-pressure situations. Plum’s career highlights include setting the NCAA record for most points in a season, earning a WNBA All-Star selection, and playing a key role as the Aces pursue a potential three-peat. Unsurprisingly, the “Plum Dawg” was delivered in Paris, with her contributions proving vital in both the 3×3 and 5×5 tournaments, showcasing her resilience and commitment to the game.
