By Antonis Stroggylakis/ info@eurohoops.net
Jakarta, Indonesia – The reigning FIBA World Cup champions are set to extend their bid for a repeat in the second round of the 2023 edition of FIBA’s flagship tournament.
Spain defeated Brazil, 96-78, in the Indonesia Arena on Monday. Jumping to 2-0 in Group G clinched a spot in Group L of the Round of 16. Canada, Germany, Latvia, Lithuania, Montenegro, and the USA were already in.
Sergio Scariolo’s side led for nearly 33 minutes, including the entire second half, but went into the fourth quarter to earn a safe separation with the lead peaking at 21 points. More help from players coming off the bench really helped persistence as displayed by 50 points from reserves, highlighted by 15 points from Memphis Grizzlies big Santi Aldama.
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Young starting point guard Juan Nunez was the driving force recording 13 points, seven rebounds, five assists, and two steals en route to a team-high efficiency rating of 21. Willy Hernangomez put in 14 points and Alberto Diaz added 11 points.
Former NBA player, Bruno Caboclo leading the charge for Brazil ended up with a 15-point, 11-rebound double-double to go with three blocks on an efficiency rating of 25. Yago dos Santos logged 14 points, six rebounds, and four assists.
The team coached by Gustavo de Conti is a candidate to follow Spain in Group L. Playing Cote d’Ivoire for a berth in the next round will be the theme on Wednesday. Following Spain versus Iran will wrap up the round-robin schedule.
Photo Credit: FIBA.BASKETBALL