Team USA Battles for Bronze in Thrilling Men’s Volleyball Clash

PARIS, France — Four-time U.S. Olympians Matt Anderson and David Smith have again made their mark on the international stage, securing bronze medals in men’s volleyball at the Paris Olympics.

The victory came after a dramatic contest against Italy, capped by Torey DeFalco’s clinching point. The Americans won 25-23, 30-28, and 26-24 at the electrifying South Paris Arena.

Erik Shoji and teammates celebrated joyfully as the game concluded, each taking moments to acknowledge the coaches and support staff who aided in their journey.

Ranked just behind Italy and buoyed by the stakes, the U.S. team fought through gripping rallies and narrow margins. Facing a match point in the third set, Italy managed to tie the game at 24, only to falter on their next serve, enabling the Americans to claim victory.

Both teams were seeking their first Olympic medals since the Rio de Janeiro Games when the Americans won bronze and Italy was bested by Brazil for gold. The U.S. squad had to quickly recover from a heartbreaking five-set loss to top-ranked Poland days earlier.

Among the youngest teams in Rio, the current U.S. players decided to aim for redemption following their early exit in Tokyo. Italy held a 21-20 lead in the first set, but the Americans fought back, ultimately securing it on their second set point.

In a riveting second set, the Americans initially led 20-17 before Italy surged back to take a 21-20 lead. Even at 24-23, Italy’s chance slipped away as Roberto Russo’s serve missed the mark.

Looking ahead, France will compete against world No. 1 Poland in the gold-medal match on Saturday. The U.S. team, who previously won gold in Beijing and bronze in Rio, has its sights set on future opportunities, with Anderson hinting at a potential return in Los Angeles in four years.

“We’ll see,” he remarked this week, leaving the door open for another Olympic endeavor.