Home FIBA USA retains FIBA World U19 crown by edging Croatia in overtime

USA retains FIBA World U19 crown by edging Croatia in overtime

USA defeated Croatia 79-71 after a period of overtime to retain the FIBA under-19 world championship in Crete.

The ever powerful Americans scoop their sixth title overall and have become the first side since 1983 to successfully retain the world crown at under-19 level.

Four USA players hit double figures for scoring, paced by Jalen Brunson’s 14 points, as he claimed the tournament’s MVP honours.

But the States were made to work hard for their recent success by a determined Croatia side, hampered by injuries and a pre-tournament footwear dispute that resulted in potential NBA Draft prospect Dragan Bender leaving the camp.

Regardless of the controversy, Croatia were close to winning the title for the first time, against all the odds. But instead, they have to settle for second.

TURKEY CLAIM BRONZE

Turkey finished their campaign by winning the third place game by beating hosts Greece 80-71.

Highlights

Final standings of the 2015 FIBA U19 world championship:

1. USA

2. Croatia

3. Turkey

4. Greece

5. Canada

6. Italy

7. Australia

8. Spain

9. Serbia

10. Argentina

11. Egypt

12. Korea

13. Dominican Republic

14. Iran

15. China

16. Tunisia

Photo: FIBA

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