In a stunning twist at the FIBA Basketball World Cup 2023, Montenegro shocked Greece with a narrow victory of 67-65 in Athens. This marks the second time Montenegro has defeated Greece, solidifying their position in Group B.
Game Highlights and Key Players
The game was a nail-biter, culminating in two critical possessions orchestrated by Montenegro’s Derek Needham. The seasoned point guard executed a pivotal pick-and-roll with Zoran Nikolic. When Greece’s defense focused on Needham, he delivered a precise assist for a dunk from Nikolic, tying the game at 65.
In the next crucial possession, Needham displayed his court awareness. He directed Emir Hadzibegovic to the dunker spot as Greece’s defense transitioned to Nikolic. Hadzibegovic then sealed the match with a decisive finish, putting the score at 67-65.
Crisis for Greece
In the final seconds, Coach Vassilis Spanoulis called a timeout, attempting to devise a final play for Greece. Vasileios Toliopoulos attempted a layup, but it bounced off the rim, sealing Greece’s fate as time expired.
Standings and Upcoming Matches
The win ties Montenegro and Greece at 2-1 in Group B. Both teams are set for a rematch in Podgorica on Monday, raising anticipation for another exciting showdown.
Key Statistics
| Team | Score | Group B Record |
|---|---|---|
| Montenegro | 67 | 2-1 |
| Greece | 65 | 2-1 |
This unexpected result serves as a reminder that in basketball, anything can happen, and Montenegro has proved once again that they can compete with the best.
