Key Highlights

• Six former University of Utah women, including five athletes and one coach, will participate in the 2024 Paris Summer Olympics.
• Notable athletes include Michelle Plouffe, Paige Crozon, and Simone Plourde, each with impressive athletic backgrounds.
• The Games will be covered on Peacock, EuroSport, and Discovery+ apps, running from July 26 to August 11.
• 10,500 athletes from 206 countries will participate, with approximately 120 heads of state expected to attend.

(NicePlay Sports) – As the 2024 Paris Summer Olympics approach, the spotlight shines brightly on six former University of Utah women who will be showcasing their talents on the grandest stage of sports. These athletes, a testament to the university’s robust athletic program, will compete across various disciplines, representing their respective nations and bringing pride to Utah. The significance of their participation cannot be overstated, as it underscores the University of Utah’s consistent contribution to producing world-class athletes. Michelle Plouffe, Paige Crozon, and Simone Plourde are among the notable names to watch, each bringing a wealth of experience and a history of excellence. Their journey to the Olympics is a narrative of dedication, resilience, and unparalleled skill. This collective achievement is not just a milestone for these exceptional athletes but also a moment of celebration for the University of Utah and its community.

Michelle Plouffe and the Canadian 3×3 Basketball Team

Michelle Plouffe stands out as a prominent figure in the world of 3×3 basketball. A three-time All-Pac-12 selection during her time at Utah, Plouffe has transitioned seamlessly from 5-on-5 basketball to the faster-paced, more dynamic 3×3 format. Her journey from competing in 2012 and 2016 Olympics with the traditional Canadian national team to now leading the 3×3 squad showcases her adaptability and undying passion for the sport. Plouffe, along with her twin sister Katherine, has been instrumental in elevating the status of Canada’s 3×3 team, which is currently ranked fifth in the FIBA world rankings. Their recent success at the Olympic qualifying tournament, where they secured their spot by finishing third, is a testament to their skill and determination. The team’s upcoming schedule is packed, with pool play starting on July 30 and culminating in the gold-medal game on August 5. The shift to 3×3 has allowed Plouffe to shine even brighter, emphasizing her versatility and strategic acumen on the court. Her leadership and experience will be crucial as the Canadian team aims for Olympic glory.

Paige Crozon’s First Olympic Appearance

Paige Crozon, another standout from the University of Utah, will be making her Olympic debut in Paris. Since joining the Canadian 3×3 team in 2019, Crozon has been a formidable presence on the court. Her time at Utah from 2012-17 laid a solid foundation for her professional career, and her recent performances have only added to her growing reputation. Crozon played a pivotal role in securing Canada’s Olympic berth, particularly with a crucial putback in the third-place game at the qualifying tournament. Teaming up with Plouffe, Crozon has already tasted success, winning silver at the 2022 FIBA 3×3 World Cup. Her journey to the Olympics is a story of perseverance and excellence, and her presence in Paris promises to be thrilling for fans and supporters alike.

Simone Plourde and the Women’s 1,500-meters

Simone Plourde’s path to the Olympics has been marked by determination and outstanding performances. After transferring to Utah from BYU and turning professional last year, Plourde’s hard work culminated in her qualification for the 2024 Paris Games. Despite not meeting the Olympic qualifying standard time, her impressive World Athletics points secured her a spot. Plourde’s personal best in the 1,500 meters, a 4:05.92 run in Los Angeles, highlights her potential to compete at the highest level. The introduction of the ‘repechage’ round at the Olympics provides athletes like Plourde with a valuable second chance to showcase their talent, adding an exciting new dimension to the competition. Her participation is a proud moment for the University of Utah and an opportunity to witness her incredible speed and endurance on the international stage.

Emilia Nilsson Garip and Josefine Eriksen’s Olympic Journey

Emilia Nilsson Garip and Josefine Eriksen, both representing their respective countries, Sweden and Norway, are set to leave their mark in Paris. Nilsson Garip, a freshman at Utah, has already made history as Utah diving’s first Olympian since 2000. Her All-America honors in the 1m event and a stellar performance at the 2023 NCAA championships underscore her diving prowess. Competing in the women’s 3m springboard, Nilsson Garip’s schedule includes the preliminaries on August 7, with the final set for August 9. Her journey to the Olympics, marked by her recent success at the European Aquatics Championships, is a testament to her skill and dedication.Josefine Eriksen, meanwhile, will be taking part in the women’s 4x400m relay for Norway. Having wrapped up her Utah career with second-team All-American honors, Eriksen’s contribution to setting a national record at the World Athletics Relays speaks volumes about her capabilities. The Norwegian relay team’s qualification for the Olympics, the first since 1920, is a historic achievement, with Eriksen playing a crucial role. The relay events, scheduled for August 9 and 10, will be a highlight of the track and field competition, with Eriksen’s performance eagerly anticipated.

Kim Gaucher’s Transition from Player to Coach

Kim Gaucher, known during her Utah days as Kim Smith, embodies the evolution of an athlete into a mentor. A veteran of the Canadian national team, Gaucher’s transition from player to coach is a significant chapter in her illustrious career. Her experience from three previous Olympic Games (2012, 2016, 2020) provides invaluable insights and leadership to the Canadian 3×3 team. Gaucher’s coaching journey is marked by her deep understanding of the game and her ability to inspire and guide her team. Her role in the 3×3 program’s development, from its nascent stages to now competing at the Olympics, is a testament to her dedication and vision. The stories of the athletes she coaches, their resilience, and their journey to becoming Olympians reflect Gaucher’s impact and the profound connection she shares with her team. The 2024 Paris Summer Olympics promise to be an exciting chapter for these former University of Utah athletes, each bringing their unique stories and exceptional talents to the global stage. Their participation not only highlights their individual achievements but also underscores the University of Utah’s role in nurturing world-class talent. As they compete in their respective events, they carry the pride and support of their university, their state, and sports enthusiasts around the world.