MADRID (Spain) - Spanish ace Iyana Martin Carrion was named TISSOT Most Valuable Player of the FIBA U19 Women's Basketball World Cup 2023 after helping her team come close to landing their first-ever title.

While the guard wasn't quite able to celebrate Spain making history as the hosts were eventually undone 69-66 in the title game against USA, she was recognized for her exceptional contributions.

Martin Carrion finished with a performance efficiency valuation of 18.6 after top-scoring for Spain with 16.1 points per outing. She also averaged 3.3 assists, 2.7 rebounds, and 2.6 steals.

"We have played an unbelievable tournament and we've been the first team that has truly battled against the USA," said the MVP.

"I heard chants of MVP and I'm really thankful to the fans and to this awesome team. Also to the coaches that were really supportive and my family. I'm really proud as everyone helped and gave me confidence."

She added: "It has been a great party with 7,000 fans. It's unbelievable with all the chanting and this tournament had a great exposure."

Joining Martin Carrion on the All-Star Five were title-winning USA duo Joyce Edwards and Hannah Hidalgo, as well as Toby Fournier of Canada and Leila Lacan of France.

Edwards led the champions in efficiency at 16.6 per game, as well as scoring with an average of 12.6 points to go with her 6.1 rebounds.

Hidalgo wasn't just about numbers or production, since her defense and intensity were huge factors in her team's title success. She finished with 10.7 points and a team-high 5.4 assists per game. She also grabbed an average of 3.4 boards and 3.1 steals, too.

Fournier finished with a bronze medal and a fine tournament double-double as the Canadian claimed 16.1 points and a tournament-topping 13.7 rebounds per game. She also blocked an average of 2.1 shots per outing.

Finally, Leila Lacan showed great leadership for France and she locked down her spot in the prestigious lineup having harvested an all-action 17.1 points, 3.7 rebounds, 3.0 steals, and 2.9 assists per game. 

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