World no. 11 Germany on Friday made historical past by beating a star-studded and heavyweight Team USA within the semifinals to advance to the 2023 FIBA World Cup finals towards Serbia.
It will probably be Germany’s first look on the finals and in addition its first-ever win towards the Americans within the international cagefest because the USA all the time bought one of the best of Germany their three conferences previously.
While Germany put an finish to USA’s title redemption bid, Franz Wagner mentioned they’re anticipating a harder job after they tackle Serbia within the gold medal match on Sunday.
“It’s hard to say right now, we just had a huge win. We’re just gonna enjoy tonight. [But] I’m sure it will really be a tough game,” Wagner mentioned shortly after their 113-111 win on the Mall of Asia Arena.
Franz Wagner describes the upset win vs USA as a “special moment” for Germany.
Wagner drops 22 in simply his second recreation since being again from an damage @gmasportsph @gmanews pic.twitter.com/jcaHAtcQXr
— Bea Micaller (@beamicallerrr) September 8, 2023
Wagner was once more among the many main scorers for Germany, ending with 22 factors, 5 rebounds, two assists, and one steal whereas Andreas Obst shone with 24 markers, six dimes, and one swat.
The 22-year-old Wagner admitted that their transition protection was not at its finest, giving up 111 factors to the Americans with Anthony Edwards topping with 23 factors, Austin Reaves chipping in 21 markers, and Mikal Bridges ending with 17.
However, offense labored higher for Germany as they shot 57.7 p.c from the sphere towards the, capturing 41 of their 71 makes an attempt.
“We didn’t play great transition defense but I think we did a solid job executing on offense. I thought we played better offensively,” Wagner added.
Still, the Orlando Magic’s rising star mentioned they’ve a protracted technique to go, particularly towards the Serbians, who’re bannered by Bogdan Bogdanovic, Nikola Jovic, and Nikola Milutinov.
Serbia, for its half, has simply despatched Canada packing after a 95-86 victory earlier.
“We got to play for gold. I think it’s a super special moment for all of us and hopefully in German basketball in general. We have more work to do.”
—JKC, GMA Integrated News
Source: www.gmanetwork.com
