PARIS — Steve Serio has seen significant success in his U.S. Paralympic career, securing two golds and a bronze across four Paralympic Games as a member of the wheelchair basketball team.

As he prepares to conclude his Paralympic journey in Paris, Serio expresses no regrets about this decision. He has played a pivotal role in guiding the U.S. team to the semifinals—just one victory away from the coveted gold medal match. However, Serio believes that it is not the medals or wins that will linger in his memory, but rather the smaller moments.

The cherished experiences include bonding with teammates in the cafeteria, enjoying life in the Paralympic village, sharing laughs during team bus rides, and forming connections with his fellow athletes. These are the memories he will hold dear when his Paralympic career comes to an end.

“I’ve taken the time to truly appreciate living in the moment more than before,” Serio shared.

Serio’s final games have gotten off to a fantastic start. The U.S. team demonstrated their dominance in Group B, finishing without a loss, and they continued their strong performance with a quarterfinal win on Wednesday.

In the quarterfinal matchup, Serio contributed 13 points on 43% shooting as the U.S. team overwhelmed France with an 82-47 scoreline. However, it’s the younger players on the team who have been making headlines during the Paris Games.

Leading the charge against France, Jake Williams scored 23 points, while Brian Bell added 20 points. Both are seasoned Paralympians, backed by newcomers like Jorge Salazar, who scored 13 points. The future looks promising for U.S. wheelchair basketball, an exciting prospect for Serio.

“I envy those athletes who will compete in L.A.,” said Serio. “Competing on my home soil would be incredible, but it’s a true privilege to take the court with them and witness their growth over these Games.”

Savoring the support of a home crowd

Trevon Jenifer, a four-time Paralympian representing the U.S., described the excitement he felt from the French audience as he spoke on Tuesday. Even with a dominant performance from the Americans, the crowd maintained its enthusiasm throughout the game.

“The energy is contagious,” Jenifer remarked. “Throughout my four Paralympic appearances, playing in front of the local fans is an unmatched experience.”

The atmosphere was comparable to the most vibrant venues Jenifer and Serio have ever experienced.

“In a setting like that, it’s essential to harness the energy it provides,” remarked Serio. “This was a remarkable experience, and I am grateful to the people of Paris for their support of Paralympic athletes. The atmosphere in that arena was one of the most enjoyable I’ve ever encountered.”

The U.S. team started strong with an early 6-0 lead, providing them a cushion for errors. The French rallied with a 7-0 run to kick off the second quarter, thrilling the enthusiastic crowd, which led to a U.S. timeout at 6:55. However, the Americans regained control for the remainder of the match.

Serio referred to Tuesday’s game as a celebration, contrasting it with the peculiar atmosphere of the Tokyo Games, which lacked live audiences. This event also marks his last appearance, where family and friends are present to cheer him on.

“Each Paralympic Games has its unique character,” Serio expressed. “This is an opportunity for loved ones to witness and be part of this moment with us, and we are truly appreciating it. It has been a tremendous honor to play in front of them.”