Germany wins first-ever FIBA World Cup following defeat of Serbia

Germany defeated European rivals Serbia in a close contest 83-77 to pick up an important win in the final. The Germans secured their maiden gold medal at the FIBA World Cup in Manila.

After defeating favourites USA in the semifinals to reach the final for the first time ever, Germany were favourites to win the match. They lived up to the expectations and emerged with the gold medal after.

Serbia started the match excellently, proving to be no pushovers against their fellow Europeans. The first quarter ended with the two-time champions in the lead by 26 points to 23. Germany recovered in the second quarter but found the Serbians to be resolute in their play, as the first half ended with the scores level at 47-47.

Germany pulled away in the third quarter as they showed their quality in the game to take a 69-57 lead. Serbia fought back in the fourth quarter but could not level the game as Germany held them off to claim a 83-77 win and end the whole tournament without a defeat.

NBA stars Dennis Schroder and Franz Wagner shone brightly for Germany, with Schroder recording 28 points and Wagner scoring 19 for Germany. Aleksa Avramovic scored 21 points for Serbia, who also had Bogdan Bogdanovic score 17 points in the game.

Schroder was named MVP of the tournament after an excellent showing for his country throughout the tournament.