28 Jun
    6 Jul 2025

    U19 World Cup 2025 All-Second Team, Best coach and Best Defensive Player Awards

    4 min to read

    This will be the second edition to feature the Digital Awards after being introduced in 2023.

    LAUSANNE (Switzerland) - The Digital Award winners of the FIBA U19 Basketball World Cup 2025 have been confirmed, marking the second edition that these awards have been handed out.

    The All-Second Team

    Jordan Charles (Canada) impressed with his all-around offensive game and blistering speed, helping Canada make a strong showing in Lausanne. He finished as the team's leading scorer (13.0 points per game) and top passer (4.9 assists per game) for a Canadian squad that placed 5th, losing only to the two finalists: USA and Germany. His performance against the USA showcased his full potential as he scored 19 points and dished out 5 assists.

    Tama Isaac (New Zealand) was the heart and soul for New Zealand. He played the most minutes for his squad and posted its best efficiency rating (15.2). He did it all, averaging 13.6 points, 5.0 rebounds, and 5.0 assists per game. More importantly, he never gave up - constantly stepping up as a leader for his teammates.

    Dayan Nessah (Switzerland) was a revelation for the home team in its debut appearance at the competition, bringing energy on both ends of the floor. He led Switzerland in points (17.7 per game), rebounds (9.3 per game), and efficiency (19.4, 6th best overall) while guarding multiple positions.

    Roman Siulepa (Australia) electrified fans with his rare combination of athleticism and raw strength. He delivered high-flying finishes while also contributing steadily on the glass and in transition. He scored in double figures in every game, recording two double-doubles and averaging 18.9 points and 8.1 rebounds per game.

    Tyler Kropp (Argentina) was as consistent as a Swiss watch. He led the entire tournament in scoring (21.7 points per game), with all seven of his games falling between 18 and 25 points. He also finished as the 4th best rebounder (9.7 rebounds per game) and posted the second-best efficiency rating (24.7).

    Best Defensive Player: Jordan Smith Jr - USA

    The Best Defensive Player award went to Jordan Smith Jr for USA, who set the tone with his relentless energy and ability to change the game without the ball.

    Jordan Smith Jr. (USA) was a freak of athleticism - and he made sure that showed on the defensive end. He anchored the American defense with elite on-ball pressure and quick hands, routinely forcing turnovers and taking on the opposing team's top scorer. His 5 steals against Australia stood out, and he finished the tournament averaging 2.0 swipes per game.

    In the Final, he was given the grueling task of containing Christian Anderson and Smith Jr did his job well. An elite defensive specialist.

    Best Coach: Danijel Radosavljevic - Slovenia

    The Best Coach award was presented to Danijel Radosavljevic, whose tactical acumen and leadership helped elevateSlovenia to new heights.

    Danijel Radosavljevic led his players to a historic World Cup medal for Slovenia. His team improved over the course of the tournament's seven games - always a strong sign that the coach's message is landing. He truly got the most out of his players' abilities, finding the leaders he needed in Zak Smrekar and Urban Kroflic.

    FIBA

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