It wasn’t really a contest. The United States lifted the FIBA World Cup on cruise control, hammering Serbia 129-92 in Madrid to claim the trophy for a record-equalling fifth time, fuelled by 26 points from NBA star Kyrie Irving, who was named MVP.
After taking a shock 12-5 lead, the Serbs were torn apart with the defending champions seizing control with 15 consecutive points on their way to a 67-41 half-time lead.
And the Americans were relentless, going as much as 40 in front to underline their superiority and capture the trophy for a record-equalling fifth time.
“Whenever you win again, itâ€
s the sweetest one because no-one guarantees the sweets,” USA coach Mike Krzyzewski said.
“This first five minutes of tonightâ€
s game, they knocked us back. I thought DeMarcus Cousins had about five plays in the middle of the first half that turned into a positive eight points for us and our whole team gelled. Obviously Kyrie and James (Harden) were amazing.
“But this has been a great group to work with. They always wanted to work. They always came prepared. And Iâ€
m proud of them. They stayed focused on the team they were going to play next. They respected the process. And the process turned out really good.”
FIBA World Cup All-Star Five Milos Teodosic, Kyrie Irving, Nicolas Batum, Pau Gasol, Kenneth Faried
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