Lithuania have handed the USA their first lack of the FIBA World Cup, defeating the star studded crew 110-104 in a shocking upset that took the basketball world unexpectedly.
The USA breezed by way of with three group stage wins earlier than that they had a minor scare in opposition to Montenegro within the first match of the second preliminary spherical.
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But the Americans rapidly discovered themselves in a dogfight in opposition to Lithuania, who shot to an early lead on the again of scintillating lengthy vary capturing in a conflict between the 2 beforehand undefeated groups.
The European nation shot 9/9 three-pointers to open the sport, whereas New Orleans Pelicans star Jonas Valanciunas asserted himself on the competition.
Lithuania dominated the rebounds and efficiently focused Austin Reaves, getting the LA Lakers guard and Jaren Jackson Jr in early foul hassle.
Lithuania led by 17 factors at halftime, earlier than the USA erased the deficit within the first 5 minutes of the third quarter.
But each time it appeared the Americans had been about to take the lead, Lithuania responded with a second likelihood basket or a three-pointer.
The dagger recreation halfway by way of the fourth quarter when Mindaugas Kuzminskas sunk an insane Hail Mary three-pointer because the shot clock ran out.
“Oh I don’t believe it,” the commentator exclaimed.
“You cannot be serious! Kuzminskas under incredible ball pressure, throws up a prayer over Anthony Edwards and scores.”
Anthony Edwards completed with 35 factors nevertheless it wasn’t sufficient to tug his crew over the road.
Since 2019, the USA have solely misplaced to Australia, France, Nigeria and now Lithuania.
The USA had already executed sufficient to qualify for the Paris Olympics, e-book their place within the quarterfinals and stay the favorite to win their first World Cup gold medal since 2014.
It means Lithuania, Latvia and Slovenia have all certified for the quarterfinals.
Australia’s Boomers wrapped up their disappointing World Cup marketing campaign with a comfort 100-84 win over Georgia on Sunday.
Losses to Germany and Slovenia ended any hopes the Boomers had of progressing to the quarterfinals and vying for a medal.
Source: www.news.com.au
