Hosts North Macedonia, Czech Republic reach Final to secure promotion

SKOPJE (North Macedonia) - Hosts North Macedonia and Czech Republic both celebrated reaching the Final of the FIBA U20 European Championship 2023, Division B, as well as promotion to Division A next summer.

For North Macedonia, they led for all but 1:50 on route to their 66-53 victory over Ukraine. By reaching the Final, North Macedonia ensured that they will reach the podium for the first time since 2006.

Rezart Memed recorded a game-high 24 points on 6-of-10 shooting from three-point range, while Amar Hot had a 12-point, 11-rebound double-double.

Oleksandr Kobzystyi finished with 16 points, 9 rebounds, 2 assists and 2 steals for Ukraine in defeat.

Czech Republic, meanwhile, have punched a ticket to their fourth Final at the event and are looking for their first ever first place finish after taking down previously unbeaten Sweden in a high scoring affair, 94-74.

Four players reached double figures for Czech Republic, as Martin Kheil posted 20 points and 5 rebounds. Ondrej Svec had a balanced stat line with 16 points, 7 assists, 6 rebounds and 2 steals.

Czech Republic assisted on 30 out of 33 made shots from the field for the second most in a game in the tournament.

Felix Brostrom led Sweden with 15 points off the bench.

FIBA