Dennis Schroder struggled with his shooting, but his teammates stepped up, and Germany defeated Latvia 81-79 at the FIBA Basketball World Cup 2023. The game had many lead changes, with Germany ultimately securing the win.
Coach Gordie Herbert’s team advances to the Semi-Finals against the United States, while Latvia moves to Classification Games 5-8. Schroder’s tough shooting night included tying a World Cup record for missed shots.
Franz Wagner’s return and an 8-0 run in the fourth quarter played a pivotal role for Germany. Latvia’s Arturs Zagars impressed, but a game-winning three-pointer attempt by Davis Bertans fell short, sealing Germany’s victory.
“Give Latvia a lot of credit,” said Gordie Herbert, head coach of Germany. “I said it two months ago, they are the best team in Europe that nobody talks about, and they are missing a couple of guys, too. They play great basketball, team basketball, well coached and I give them a lot of credit.
“We won. It wasn’t pretty, little bit of a stinker on the offensive end. I have no doubt (Dennis Schroder) will bounce back. Adversity builds strength. He had a very tough day today, but he’s a super tough kid, very competitive, I have no doubt he will bounce back.”
Watch the game highlights between Germany and Latvia in the Quarter-Finals of the FIBA Basketball World Cup 2023:
