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The FIBA World Cup 2023 saw an intense battle between Germany and Serbia in the final. Germany emerged as the victors, securing their first-ever FIBA World Cup title with an 83-77 win over Serbia. The Wagner brothers, Franz and Moritz, played a crucial role in Germany’s victory by orchestrating a 22-10 surge in the third quarter. Dennis Schroder, the tournament’s MVP, led Germany with a game-high 28 points. This win marked the first time a team had won the FIBA World Cup in their final debut since Spain in 2006.
Despite a valiant effort from Serbia, who had previously suffered a heartbreak in the 2014 final against the United States, they were unable to overcome Germany’s lead. A late surge from Marko Guduric brought Serbia within two points, but costly turnovers and missed opportunities prevented them from making a comeback. Serbia faced additional challenges due to injuries, with Ognjen Dobric being carried off the floor with an ankle injury and Borisa Simanic undergoing surgery to remove a kidney.
In the bronze-medal game, Canada secured their first World Cup podium finish by defeating an undermanned United States team 127-118 in overtime. Dillon Brooks led the Canadians with a tournament-high 39 points, including seven of eight three-pointers. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander contributed 31 points, six rebounds, and 12 assists. The United States, missing key players due to illness, had a strong performance from Anthony Edwards, who scored 24 points. Despite the loss, the United States improved upon their seventh-place finish in the previous tournament.
Canada’s victory marked several milestones, including their first-ever semi-final appearance and qualification for the Summer Olympics for the first time since 2000. The United States, although disappointed with their third-place finish, fared better than their seventh-place finish in the previous tournament. The FIBA World Cup 2023 provided thrilling matchups and showcased the talent and determination of the participating teams.