BRNO (Czechia) - A stunning performance from Somtochukwu Okafor ensured Spain claimed bronze at the FIBA U19 Women's Basketball World Cup as they sunk Canada 70-68 in a dramatic Third-Place Game.
The guard, who is eligible to play again in 2027, was a difference-maker for her team in a super matchup in Brno as she finished with a stellar performance efficiency valuation of 34 in one of the best displays of the entire tournament.
Okafor scored 23 points and completed a double-double with 11 boards - as well as dishing out 3 assists and grabbing 3 steals. The all-important cameo came from Maria Anais Rodriguez who had 14 points in the paint. The global team effort from Spain who trailed most of the game was superb.
Spain followed up on their silver medal at the last edition in 2023 on home soil with another podium finish and their 5th in total.
The defeat was tough on Canada who had been dreaming of a first ever Final, but ended up empty-handed as a last second effort from Agot Makeer for the win fell short. It was also a defeat despite a classy show from Syla Swords, who registered 20 points, 8 rebounds and 3 assists.
Classification games
- France took 5th place as they rode their way past Japan 76-64 with Sarah Cisse making 7 of 10 from the field to score 14 points alongside 6 boards and 2 blocks. Teammate Ines Pitarch-Granel claimed 16 points and 7 rebounds, while Otoha Goto netted 21 points for Japan.
- Portugal signed off their first ever participation in style by sealing 7th spot with a 74-58 win against Hungary. It was a great team effort, but of course paced as usual by standout star Clara Silva who recorded 27 points and 11 boards. Rita Nazario was also superb with 18 points and 10 assists, while Magda Freire fired 19 points.
- Korea finished the competition with a third straight win to take an impressive 9th place. They eased out Israel 86-80 despite Gal Raviv putting up 26 points in defeat. Korea had their won hero in the shape of Yeseul Choi who amassed a majestic 24 points, 10 rebounds and 4 assists.
- Host nation Czechia closed their campaign on a high by winning an exciting matchup with Brazil by 70-65. Marie Hamzova did great work with 16 points, 6 rebounds and 3 assists for her team. Ayla McDowell harvested 20 points for Brazil.
- China beat Nigeria to 13th place with a dominant 96-71 victory to end on a winning note. They were fueled by another sensational effort from Kejia Ran who put up 25 points and 13 boards to end a fabulous individual tournament.
FIBA