The basketball talent showcased at the 2023 FIBA World Cup may not have been on par with the players set to compete in the upcoming Paris Olympics, but it was still a highly competitive event that captivated fans around the world. As the tournament nears its conclusion, with the bronze-medal game between Team USA and Team Canada followed by the gold-medal game featuring Team Serbia and Team Germany, it’s time to reflect on the players who made the biggest impacts throughout the event.
As Coach Steve Kerr remarked, Steph Curry proved his worth as “the guy” during the World Cup. With an average of 18.1 points per game, Curry showcased his outstanding scoring abilities and his talent for creating his own shot. Furthermore, he demonstrated his defensive prowess and strong work ethic on that end of the court, setting an excellent example for his team.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, already an NBA star on the rise, took his game to another level at the World Cup. His performances were nothing short of dominant, as he led the Canadians to their best program finish while securing an Olympic bid. Gilgeous-Alexander ranked among the tournament leaders in scoring (23.6), shooting percentage (54%), and steals (1.9), earning praise from Serbian coach Svetislav Pesic as one of the best players he has ever coached against.
Luka Doncic’s performance at the World Cup was reminiscent of his brilliance on the NBA court. The Slovenian guard showcased his exceptional body control, force, and technical skill while tormenting defenders. Doncic’s offensive skills were unmatched, drawing countless fouls and earning multiple trips to the free-throw line. However, one area of concern was his persistent complaining, which set a negative example for his coach and teammates, as well as adversely affecting his team’s defense and his own chances with officials.
Despite missing several key players, including Nikola Jokic, the Serbian team found solace in the remarkable performances of Bogdan Bogdanovic. Initially benched after a poor outing against Italy, the Atlanta Hawks guard responded emphatically by leading his team to victory in the following games. Bogdanovic’s exceptional shooting, averaging 24-for-32 over three games, propelled Serbia to earn a valuable Olympic berth and a place in the finals.
Dennis Schroder: From Role Player to Superstar
Dennis Schroder, a classic NBA role player, flourished as a superstar for the German national team. Guard play often proves to be a decisive factor in the World Cup, and Schroder’s relentless attacking style proved invaluable for his team. While he occasionally exhibited tendencies to over-dribble and take ill-advised shots, Schroder’s leadership and on-court skills were instrumental in Germany’s success.
Mikal Bridges emerged as one of the steadiest players on Team USA throughout the tournament. As a point-of-attack defender, he fearlessly took on the challenge of guarding smaller and quicker opponents. Bridges also showcased his burgeoning offensive abilities when needed, providing crucial scoring contributions against Italy and Germany.
Josh Giddey: The Rising Australian Star
Josh Giddey, a potential force in Australian basketball for the next decade, demonstrated his ability to overpower opponents with his size and aggression when attacking the basket. Throughout the tournament, Giddey displayed his versatility, averaging 19.4 points, 5 rebounds, and 6 assists. However, just like with the Oklahoma City Thunder, Giddey’s 3-point shooting struggled, shooting a mere 17% from beyond the arc.
AJ Lawson, one of the standout guards in the tournament, played a pivotal role in South Sudan’s inspiring journey. Averaging 20.4 points, 10.4 assists, and 4.8 rebounds, Lawson guided the Bright Stars to a momentous Olympic bid. The G League Player of the Year for the 2022-23 season, Lawson looks to be a promising contender for significant playing time with the Chicago Bulls.
Nikola Milutinov: An Impressive Presence
Nikola Milutinov, highly regarded for his combination of strength and skill, showcased his abilities on an international stage. Although not joining the NBA due to a multi-year deal signed to play in Greece, Milutinov made a significant impact as the center for Team Serbia. Averaging 13 points and 9 rebounds, Milutinov played a key role in Serbia reaching the championship game.
Karl-Anthony Towns, who chose to represent the Dominican Republic a decade ago, was a standout player for his team during the World Cup. Averaging 24.4 points and eight rebounds, Towns showcased his scoring abilities and long-range shooting, converting 39% of his 3-point attempts. His decision to play for the Dominican Republic highlights the ongoing need for size and talent in the United States’ basketball program.
The 2023 FIBA World Cup brought together an array of talented players who exhibited exceptional skills, leadership, and determination throughout the tournament. These standout performers have left an indelible mark on the competition, captivating fans worldwide and setting the stage for future basketball greatness.
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