MIES (Switzerland) - It's not often in the history of the FIBA Women's Basketball World Cup that an edition sees a podium with two medal debutantes, but that was the outcome during 1990 in Malaysia.

Played out across four cities of Kota, Kota Kinabalu, Kuching and Kuala Lumpur, the final outcome was worthy of its place as one of FIBA's 90 most iconic moments as there were two proud and historical accomplishments.

Cuba landed a bronze medal and it is the only time they have ever secured a podium finish in the competition

Both Yugoslavia and Cuba took silver and bronze medals respectively for the first time in the tournament, with USA managing to retain the crown they had won four years earlier. Indeed, it turned out to be their second of four titles in five editions.

Their Final success came against Yugoslavia in an 88-78 victory as they were carried throughout the tournament by the irrepressible Teresa Edwards - as well as Katrina McClain, who both combined for 40 points in the decisive game.

Cuba and Yugoslavia both took medals, with the latter beating their rival in the Semi-Finals

The performance of Yugoslavia was exceptional, with that title game being the only one they lost as Bosnia and Herzegovina legend and FIBA Hall of Fame entrant Razija Mujanovic dropped 23.4 points per game.

Cuba took that historic Third-Place finish behind the performances of Regla Hernandez Buides and Leonor Borrell as they cruised past Czechoslovakia to that famous bronze medal. However, it remains the only time they have finished on the podium in the competition.

It was the end of an era for the Soviet Union as they missed out on a medal and never returned to the competition

Meanwhile, for the very first time in the competition's long 37-year history, the Soviet Union didn't manage a podium finish when stepping out. They could only manage fifth place in what would be their final appearance, having previously won six titles.

There was also much to enjoy in Malaysia from the exceptional talent that is none other than Hortencia Marcari. Another FIBA Hall of Fame member, she was untouchable in terms of her scoring power and posted a magnificent and potent 31.5 points per game - although the 10th place finish for Brazil was a big disappointment.

As the hosts were unable to win a game, there was also a tinge of disappointment for home fans, although it would not have been an additional historic note had they managed to do it. For the Asian nation had already won a game on their only other appearance in 1979. 

FIBA