Historic Championship Moments: Unforgettable FIBA World Cup Victories
The FIBA Basketball World Cup, previously known as FIBA Basketball World Championship, has witnessed some stunning upsets and remarkable triumphs throughout its history.
While Team USA, most often fielded with NBA superstars, has often been a dominant force in international basketball, there have been instances when other nations rose to the occasion and claimed victory.
As the FIBA World Cup 2023 unfolds with Philippines, Japan, and Indonesia as co-hosts, and the Philippines taking charge of the knockout stages up to the finals, let's take a look at five memorable championship victories that didn't include Team USA in the finals.
1. Spain's Triumph in 2006 in Japan and first FIBA World Cup 2019 in China
Hosted by Japan, the 2006 FIBA World Championship saw Spain emerge as champions. Facing off against Greece in the final, Spain secured a hard-fought victory with a final score of 70-47.
Pau Gasol, the Spanish team captain, showcased his high basketball IQ and was named the Most Valuable Player of the tournament. Yao Ming was the tournament's top scorer.
Spain repeated its dominance in China's edition, the first and rebranded FIBA World Cup in 2019. The World Cup MVP, Ricky Rubio, led the Spanish squad in the finals against Argentina with the score 95-75.
2. Yugoslavia's Back-to-back FIBA World Championship in 1998 and 2002
Yugoslavia back-to-back triumphs began in the 1998 FIBA World Championship, held in Athens, Greece. This dominant squad displayed remarkable teamwork and skill, securing a victory against Russia in the final game with a score of 64-62. The tournament's Most Valuable Player award rightfully went to Dejan Bodiroga.
The 2002 FIBA World Championship, held in Indianapolis, Indiana, USA, witnessed Yugoslavia ascend to the championship throne once more. In a thrilling final against Argentina, Yugoslavia triumphed with a score of 84-77 in overtime, showcasing their basketball prowess on the global stage.
3. Soviet Union Claims Victory in 1974 in Puerto Rico
Hosted by Puerto Rico, the 1974 FIBA World Championship marked the 7th edition of the international basketball world championship. The championship trophy was secured by the Soviet Union, after defeating the United States in the last game of the final round.
Dragan Kićanović from the Socialist Federal Republic of Yugoslavia earned the prestigious title of Most Valuable Player (MVP) of the tournament. While Arturo Guerrero of Mexico emerged as the tournament's top scorer.
4.Yugoslavia's Domination in 1978 in the Philippines
In the 1978 FIBA World Championship hosted by the Philippines, Yugoslavia emerged as the champions. The final saw them facing off against the Soviet Union, resulting in a thrilling match that concluded with a score of 82-81. Dražen Dalipagić's remarkable performance led him to be named the Most Valuable Player of the tournament.
5. Brazil's Historic First Back-to-Back FIBA Championship Titles
Brazil's basketball prowess shone in the 1959 and 1963 FIBA World Championships. In 1959, Brazil secured the championship title in Chile, with Amaury Pasos being named the Most Valuable Player. Just four years later, in 1963, Brazil claimed yet another title as they hosted the tournament. Wlamir Marques led the charge and was named the tournament's Most Valuable Player.
The Philippines was the supposed 1963 host, but then-President Diosdado Macapagal rejected visas for players from communist countries. Reigning champion Brazil was granted the right to host the event.
