U.S. Men’s Wheelchair Basketball Onward To Gold Medal Game After Trouncing Canada, As Veteran Brian Bell Stars

PARIS — Three-time Paralympian Brian Bell sparked Team USA’s fire with consecutive baskets, both coming off nice Jake Williams assists early in the second quarter. The 35-year-old veteran drew a foul on the second, converted the free throw and propelled the U.S. to a 20-16 lead over Canada.

Five points in 27 seconds for Bell. Having sent the U.S. ahead, it proved to be the only lead change of the entire 40-minute wheelchair basketball semifinal contest at the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games.

The fiery and determined U.S. squad never trailed their North American neighbors again over the final 29 minutes of play on Thursday night at Bercy Arena. The lopsided final score was 80-43. The tight-knit group of 12 are onward to play for their third consecutive Paralympics gold medal versus Great Britain on Saturday night, Sept. 7.

It was a sensational night for Bell, who led all scorers with a staggering 31 points, shooting 14-for-18 (78%) from the field. Williams contributed 20 points, while team captain Steve Serio added 12. The U.S shot 60% (34 for 57) from the field, while Canada could manage no better than 33%.

“We know that they’re going to jump Jake, one of the best scorers in the world, and if they jump Jake they have to also guard Steve and then I’m left wide open,” Bell told Team USA, after the marquee victory.

Bell, a humble guy, admitted this might have been his best game ever.

“I would say definitely the top because it solidified us getting to the final, once again, for the third time in the Paralympics,” Bell said. 

“I’m one of the old guys now, so I’m definitely feeling it more and more,” said the 35-year-old veteran, who also played stints internationally, in both Italy and Germany. “To be able to contribute to the team at this level, at my age, is awesome.”

The Irvine, California, resident – who took up wheelchair basketball in his early teens in Birmingham, Alabama – also grabbed a game-leading 10 rebounds, while on the court for 38:09 of the 40-minute contest.

Serio heaped praise on his longtime U.S. teammate.

“Special players step up in special moments – Brian is one of those players that has been with us for a long time and he has had a lot of special moments in Paralympics and world championships, but this was a night to remember,” said Serio, the U.S. team captain.

Bell’s 31 points was the most by a men’s U.S. wheelchair basketball player at the Paralympics, since at least the London 2012 Paralympic Games.

“We absolutely leaned on him, both offensively and defensively, and he was one of the best players in the world today,” Serio said. “He has a complete game – he has no weaknesses as a player. He has had a lot of great games, but today was one for the books.”

“Brian is a ridiculous athlete – it’s a lot of fun to watch our five starters when they’re out there clicking,” said Nate Hinze, who came off the bench late to grab the team’s final two defensive rebounds and was out there as the final buzzer sounded. 

“We have great energy on the bench to help contribute,” Hinze said. “We have 12 guys here that want one thing and we’re going to try and get that on Saturday night.”

The U.S. led 40-32 at halftime, but especially took charge of the contest with a strong third quarter. They outscored their Canadian opponent, 19-7, and entered the final frame with a commanding 59-39 advantage. The lead would still grow exponentially as the U.S. brothers in arms continued to soar together, with a superior 21-4 fourth quarter en route to their 37-point triumph. 

The U.S. played stifling defense in the second half and ultimately held Canadian offensive juggernaut and six-time Paralympian Patrick Andersen to 16 points.

“Obviously, the thing that separated us tonight was our defense and that is something that we’re going to have to rely on Saturday night,” Hinze said, looking forward to their fellow English-speaking rivals. “The gameplan is going to be defense for sure.”

Team USA friends, family and supporters excitedly waited for the players to make their way outside the Bercy Arena after the medal-clinching victory. The players were enthusiastically greeted with cheers, shout-outs, hugs and other friendly revelry. Nate Hinze’s two daughters and young son ran to meet their Dad, jumping into his arms. It was an endearing few minutes for the entire team, thanks to the red, white and blue well-wishers.

“Having them here just adds to the excitement,” Hinze said, about his family of four who made the overseas trip to the French capital.

Serio, 36, who is competing in his fifth and final Paralympics, says that the upcoming gold medal match, on Saturday, Sept. 7, will be a night to remember, no matter the outcome.

“I’m sure there is going to be tons of emotions after the game, but honestly when it comes down to it, it has nothing to do with legacy, it has nothing to do with reflection, but I’m going to do everything I can do to help our team win a basketball game,” Serio said.

“I’m not going to let that moment fade away – I’m going to be present, I’m going to be a leader for our team and hopefully we’re going to bring home another win,” he said.