The basketball talent showcased at the 2023 FIBA World Cup may not have reached the same level as the upcoming Paris Olympics, but the competition was still fierce and exciting. As the tournament concludes, let’s take a closer look at some of the players who made a significant impact on the games.
Coach Steve Kerr rightly praised Stephen Curry and acknowledged his growth as a player. Curry demonstrated his scoring prowess, averaging 18.1 points per game. His ability to create his own shots and execute at different levels was extraordinary. Moreover, Curry’s commitment to defense set a great example for his team and made him an invaluable asset.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander showcased his potential as he dominated the tournament. Coming off his best NBA season, Gilgeous-Alexander proved to be one of the tournament’s best players. Averaging 23.6 points, shooting an impressive 54%, and making important steals, he led the Canadian team to their highest finish in program history and secured an Olympic bid.
Luka Doncic once again displayed his brilliance on the court. His combination of body control, strength, and technical skills continuously troubled defenders. However, Doncic’s constant complaints and lack of discipline hindered his team’s performance. His ejection from the team’s elimination game marked the second time he let his emotions get the best of him in a major tournament.
Despite missing key players like Nikola Jokic, the Serbian team found their savior in Bogdan Bogdanovic. Initially benched after a poor performance against Italy, Bogdanovic came back strong and led his team to victory. He recorded an impressive shooting percentage of 75% over three games and secured Serbia’s valuable Olympic berth. His contributions on both ends of the court were undeniable.
Dennis Schroder – The National Team Leader
Dennis Schroder, known for his role-player status in the NBA, transformed into a standout player for the German national team. His aggressive and relentless style of play greatly impacted the team’s success. Although he occasionally displayed some overdribbling and overshooting tendencies, Schroder’s leadership and full-throttle attack were vital for Germany throughout the tournament.
Mikal Bridges proved to be the most consistent player for Team USA during the World Cup. He took on the toughest defensive assignments and never shied away from guarding smaller and quicker opponents. Bridges also showcased his offensive growth when necessary, notably scoring 24 points against Italy and 17 points against Germany.
Josh Giddey demonstrated his potential as a dominant player for the Australian team. His size and strength allowed him to overpower opponents while attacking the rim. Giddey averaged an impressive 19.4 points, 5 rebounds, and 6 assists per game. However, his shooting from beyond the arc, a concern for him and his NBA team, remained a weakness, with only a 17% success rate.
Terrence Jones emerged as one of the top guards in the tournament, leading the South Sudan team to an inspiring Olympic bid. His remarkable averages of 20.4 points, 10.4 assists, and 4.8 rebounds showcased his exceptional skills. Having been recognized as the 2022-23 G League Player of the Year, Jones seems poised to make an impact with the Chicago Bulls.
Nikola Milutinov, highly regarded for his combination of strength and skill, lived up to expectations for the Serbian team. Despite missing out on some key players, Milutinov’s contribution shone through as he averaged 13 points and 9 rebounds per game. His performance played a crucial role in Serbia reaching the championship game.
Karl-Anthony Towns, representing the Dominican Republic, demonstrated his prowess as a scorer and shooter. Averaging 24.4 points and 39% from beyond the arc, he almost single-handedly led his team to the medal round. Towns’ decision to play for his mother’s country, while commendable, is one of the factors contributing to the need for size in the United States team.
The 2023 FIBA World Cup featured incredible performances from a variety of players. From seasoned NBA stars to rising talents, these athletes showcased their skills on the international stage. As basketball fans eagerly await the Paris Olympics, these players have undoubtedly left their mark on the World Cup and will continue to impress in future competitions.
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