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
