UDINE/CIVIDALE DEL FRIULI, Italy (FIBA Women's Basketball World Cup 2017) - Russia beat the USA in a classic Final matchup on Sunday to win the FIBA U19 Women's Basketball World Cup 2017.

Russia climbed onto the top step of the podium for the first time in 28 years after edging out the six-time reigning champions 86-82 in a title game that will go down as one of the most exciting in the competition's illustrious history.

Maria Vadeeva and team captain Raisa Musina led the way for the Russians. The former went for 26 points and 18 rebounds, while the latter netted a game-high 33 points to claim their first U19 crown since the Soviet Union won it back in 1989.

Cheyenne Carter erupted for 31 points for the Americans who came up short of extending their streak of winning this event to seven times in a row.

Earlier, Canada achieved their first podium finish in the history of the competition by beating Japan 67-60 in the 3rd-Place Game. 

Vadeeva was rewarded for her outstanding play throughout the tournament by being named the MVP, offered by Tissot. She led all players in efficiency, scoring and rebounding.

The Russian star headlined the All-Star Five where she was joined by her teammate Musina, along with Carter and her compatriot Ty Harris and Canada's Laeticia Amihere.

Final Standings of the FIBA U19 Women's Basketball World Cup 2017
1. Russia
2. USA
3. Canada
4. Japan
5. France
6. Australia
7. China
8. Spain
9. Hungary
10. Latvia
11. Italy
12. Mexico
13. Mali
14. Puerto Rico
15. Korea
16. Egypt

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