Class of 2025 standout Cooper Flagg led the way with 10 points, 17 rebounds, eight steals and four blocks in the title game victory.
The USA U17 Men's National Basketball Team completed its quest for a sixth consecutive FIBA World Cup gold medal Sunday in Malaga, Spain by defeating the host nation 79-67 in an impressive comeback victory.
After leading for the majority of its six games leading up to the championship game, the United States trailed much of the way Sunday before using a 29-13 third quarter rally to pull away with the gritty win in front of a raucous crowd.
USA tied things up midway through the third quarter at 48-48 before taking its first lead of the contest at 50-49 with 2:43 remaining after back-to-back
Cooper Flagg steals led to baskets on the other end.
The United States closed the third quarter on a 14-2 run to take a 62-51 lead into the fourth quarter. Although Spain didn't go away without a fight in the final frame, they were unable to cut the deficit below seven points.
Although Flagg struggled shooting the ball, he was a significant
difference maker in the contest, finishing with 10 points, 17 rebounds,
eight steals and four blocks.
Aday Mara Gomez, a 7-foot-3 center, was a dominant force on the interior on both ends of the court for Spain, going for 16 points, seven rebounds, five blocks and three assists on 7 of 9 from the field in the loss.
The hard-fought victory moves the USA U17 Men's National Basketball Team to 44-0 all-time in FIBA World Cup play with six consecutive gold medals.
Jeremy Fears was a key cog for team USA in their title game victory over Spain.
Photo: Catalina Fragoso
