USA take basketball gold

Allan Houston of the USA in action against France

The USA took gold in the men's basketball as expected but they were pushed all the way by France before recording a 85-75 victory.

Vince Carter and Ray Allen led the way for America, each scoring 13 points, but France remained in contention right to the end mainly due to the sharp-shooting of Laurent Sciarra (19) and Stephane Risacher (15).

It was the third consecutive US Olympic basketball title and the 12th US gold medal since the sport made its bow in 1936 1936 Olympic debut.

The Americans, who had already beaten France 106-94 in qualifying forged an early lead but then, as they had against Lithuania in the semi-final, allowed their opponents to close the gap.

With just under four-and-a-half minutes remaining France, boosted by two three-pointers from Stephane Risacher trailed only 76-72 and the crowd sensed a shock.

Breathing space

But two Kevin Garnett baskets and two Alonzo Mourning free throws gave the USA some breathing space.

Antoine Rigaudeau added two further free throws before a Carter reverse slam dunk ended French hopes.

Earlier, Lithuania beat Australia 89-71 to take their third consecutive Olympic men's basketball bronze medal.

Forward Sialius Stombergas hit the opening basket seven seconds into the game to bring the bench to their feet and Lithuania never trailed for the rest of the game.

"We are proud that we did what we did because, when we left Lithuania, there were many sceptics who said that we wouldn't do well at these Games," said coach Jonas Kazlauskas.