The competition at the 2023 FIBA World Cup in the Philippines was intense, although it may not compare to the talent expected at the Paris Olympics next year. The final two games of the tournament, the bronze-medal game between Team USA and Team Canada, and the gold-medal game between Team Serbia and Team Germany, will showcase the top players of the World Cup.
Among the players who made a significant impact in the tournament is Team USA guard Anthony Edwards. Known for his scoring ability, Edwards averaged 18.1 points per game and proved to be a versatile player who can create his own shot. He also showcased his defensive skills, setting a great tone for his team.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander of Team Canada had a dominating performance in the World Cup. He was among the leaders in scoring, shooting, and steals, and had clutch performances that led Canada to their best finish in program history. Serbian coach Svetislav Pesic praised Gilgeous-Alexander as one of the best players he has coached against.
Luka Doncic, representing Slovenia, displayed his brilliance on the court. His combination of body control, force, and technical skill made him a nightmare for defenders. However, his constant complaining and questionable behavior towards officials led to his ejection from the tournament.
Bogdan Bogdanovic of Serbia stepped up in the absence of key players like Nikola Jokic. After a poor performance that resulted in being benched, Bogdanovic responded with an impressive shooting spree in the following games. He averaged 19.4 points, 4.6 assists, and 2.3 steals, leading his team to a valuable Olympic berth.
Dennis Schroder, known as a role player in the NBA, showcased his superstar abilities as the leader of the German team. His aggressive style of play and leadership proved crucial for Germany’s success.
Other notable players include Mikal Bridges, who was steady for Team USA as a defender and displayed his offensive skills when needed. Josh Giddey of Australia showed promise as a dominant player with his size and ability to attack the basket. Carlik Jones of South Sudan was one of the best guards in the tournament, leading his team to an inspiring Olympic bid. Nikola Milutinov of Serbia showcased his force and skill as a highly regarded player. Finally, Karl-Anthony Towns, playing for the Dominican Republic, impressed with his scoring and rebounding abilities.
Overall, these players have left a lasting impact on the 2023 FIBA World Cup with their performances and contributions to their respective teams.