By John Askounis/ info@eurohoops.net
Luis Scola is getting even hotter as the 2019 FIBA World Cup is nearing its conclusion. With 19.3 points, 8.1 rebounds and 1.7 assists per contest he has confidently led Argentina to Sunday’s final versus Spain. The championship game at Beijing will be his 41st World Cup appearance.
The 39-year-old forward will match Bira Maciel as the players that competed in the most World Cup games in history. Bira had played in 41 games for Brazil through 1963 and 1978 taking part in 6 contests in 1963, 9 in 1967, 9 in 1970, 9 in 1974 and 8 in 1978.
On his part, Scola kicked off his World Cup run playing in 9 games and helping his country finish second in 2002. He added 9 more games in 2006, 9 in 2010 and 6 in 2014. Sunday’s final will his 8th in the current competition.
His 2019 World Cup run also included his rise to 2nd place of the all-time scoring list and his record-tying fifth participation in the global tournament. Records aside, the gold medal remains his primary target.
Photo Credit: FIBA.BASKETBALL