The German 3x3 basketball team achieved a historic victory, winning the gold medal at the 2024 Olympics in Paris, while Valarie Allman, the American discus thrower, expressed concern over the new athletics circuit that excludes jumping and throwing events. Both stories highlight significant developments in the world of sports, showcasing the triumphs and challenges faced by athletes on the global stage.
The German women's team, consisting of Svenja Brunckhorst, Sonja Greinacher, Elisa Mevius, and Marie Reichert, delivered a thrilling performance, defeating Spain 17:16 in the final. This win marks a monumental achievement as it is the first Olympic gold for the German Basketball Association. Brunckhorst, who will retire from active play, is set to take on the role of manager for girls' and women's basketball at Alba Berlin, emphasizing the importance of promoting women's sports.
In contrast, Valarie Allman, who secured her second consecutive Olympic title in the discus throw, criticized the new athletics circuit designed by Michael Johnson. This circuit, set to launch in 2025, focuses solely on lucrative meetings that exclude crucial events like jumping and throwing, which Allman believes undermines the potential for public engagement and excitement in athletics. Fellow athlete Sandra Elkasevic echoed her sentiments, stressing the need to respect all athletic disciplines.