US loses top spot in FIBA rankings after 12 years as Spain takes over

Feb 21, 2023

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BEST SQUAD. Spain celebrates a win in the FIBA World Cup European qualifiers.

FIBA

Spain coach Sergio Scariolo says the country’s top FIBA ranking over the US may not hold ‘too long,’ but still sees it as ‘unique, prestigious and historic’

The United States men’s basketball team has been knocked off the top of the International Basketball Federation (FIBA) world rankings for the first time in over 12 years, with Spain taking over.

Spain, which has enjoyed success in recent years including winning the FIBA Basketball World Cup 2019 and FIBA EuroBasket 2022, lead the November table ahead of the US.

“It’s not exactly a new title and it probably can’t be maintained for too long, but it’s something so unique, prestigious and historic that I feel tremendously proud of everyone who… has contributed to it,” Spain coach Sergio Scariolo tweeted.

Spain tops the rankings with 758.6 points followed by the US with 757.5 points. Australia ranks third with 740.3 points.

The US team had led the rankings since 2010. – Rappler.com

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