Danish storm to Small Countries glory
CORK (FIBA Women's European Championship for Small Countries) – Denmark have conquered all in front of them, storming to the Small Countries title, defeating Luxembourg 93-59 in Sunday's Final.
CORK (FIBA Women's European Championship for Small Countries) – Denmark have conquered all in front of them, storming to the Small Countries title, defeating Luxembourg 93-59 in Sunday's Final.
Denmark saved their best for last, coming back from 10-14 down to go on a 14-0 run to end the first quarter. In the rhythm, they were not about to let their foot off the gas, running away with the second period 31-8 to have one hand already firmly clutched to the trophy with 20 minutes still to play. This saw them ease up slightly following the break.
Tournament MVP Maria Jespersen was again the star in the Final, with 23 points, 7 rebounds and 6 assists.
In the battle for third place, Norway looked set for an unexpected comeback victory. Having trailed by as many as 18, they had pulled their way back into the game to be down by just 5, midway through the deciding period. However, three-pointers on consecutive possessions from veteran Maltese guard Samantha Maree Brincat doused the Norwegian momentum and sealed the 67-59 podium finish for Malta.
Earlier in the day, Ireland failed to get the double over Cyprus, the island nation claiming 5th spot with an 82-75 win. In a game that saw 12 lead changes, Petra Orlovic proved the difference, with a 29-point, 11-rebound double-double, giving her an impressive efficiency of 40.
Following a week of misery, Moldova finally had reason to smile, winning the challenge for 7th spot, 68-58 over Gibraltar, revenging a loss to the same opponents on Day 1.
FIBA