MADRID (Spain) – USA claimed an amazing 10th title at the FIBA U19 Women’s Basketball World Cup as they defended their crown with a pulsating 69-66 success against Spain in front of a huge crowd in Madrid.
More than 7,000 fans were treated to a breathtaking and relentless conclusion to a superb tournament and advertisement for both youth hoops and the women’s game.
Making it three titles in a row, it was Cotie McMahon who led the way in the Final itself and got the USA, making 8 of 10 from the floor en route to 16 points. Teammate Chloe Kitts impressed with 15 points and 9 rebounds.
This was the third Final loss for Spain, whose wait for a maiden title is extended. They certainly came agonizingly close as Iyana Martin Carrion and Elena Buenavida 19 and 16 points, respectively, in what was Spain’s only defeat of the entire tournament.
In the Third-Place Game, Canada added to their 2017 bronze medal as they dealt with star baller Cassandre Prosper being sidelined and being down by double-digits during the last quarter to fight back and claim a memorable 80-73 overtime win against France. Syla Swords stepped up impressively with 26 points, 6 rebounds, and 6 assists.
There was some consolation for Iyana Martin Carrion of Spain who was crowned the TISSOT Most Valuable Player of the tournament. She was joined in the All-Star Five by Joyce Edwards and Hannah Hidalgo of USA, as well as Toby Fournier of Canada and Leila Lacan of France.
Meanwhile, the tournament will also be remembered for the FIBA worldwide premiere of the ASB GlassFloor court – something that captured significant global attention and positive feedback.
FIBA U19 Women’s Basketball World Cup 2023 Final Standings
1. USA
2. Spain
3. Canada
4. France
5. Mali
6. Japan
7. Czech Republic
8. Lithuania
9. Australia
10. Germany
11. Italy
12. Egypt
13. China
14. Brazil
15. Chinese Taipei
16. Argentina
