Spain regains its place among the greats and wins the world bronze

Spain closed the Berlin Basketball World Cup with a bronze medal after firmly defeating Germany 81-58. The team bounced back after the loss to the United States in the semifinals and proved once again that they belong to the international elite. Eight years after their last appearance on a world podium, the team led by Miguel Méndez hangs another medal around their necks.

The defeat against the United States had left the Spanish National Basketball Team on the brink of a final that was very close, but the response in the bronze medal match was decisive. Germany, moreover, returned as an opponent after being their rival in the championship opener. The outcome was once again favorable for the Spaniards, although this time with a much greater prize.

The standout performer was once again Iyana Martín. At just 20 years old, the Asturian point guard took on the responsibility of leading the team and finished the game with 22 points and 9 assists. Her ability to accelerate the game, find her teammates, and punish from the perimeter made a significant difference.

Spain came out determined from the start and quickly established a significant lead. The 25-15 score in the first quarter reflected the team's initial dominance, which found solutions both defensively and offensively. Awa Fam capitalized on several of the opportunities created by Martín, and the Spanish team managed to impose their rhythm for much of the start.

Germany manages to react

The match, however, was not decided in the opening minutes. Germany managed to close the gap and forced Spain to work hard for every possession. Fouls also played a significant role during the first half, making it difficult for the team to maintain continuity in their play.

The host nation even managed to tie the score at 33, but Spain found resources to prevent the match from slipping away. Dominating the rebounds, especially on the offensive end, allowed Miguel Méndez's team to secure second chances and reach halftime with a four-point lead, 40-36.

The third quarter turned out to be decisive. Raquel Carrera took on the offensive role and rattled off eight consecutive points that opened up a considerable gap. Spain even found themselves leading 55-39 after a stretch that left Germany searching for the basket for several minutes.

The German response reappeared when Iyana Martín was on the bench. An 0-8 run allowed the host nation to come within 55-47 and regain some hope. But Martín returned to the court and responded immediately. A new three-pointer from her helped Spain close the third period with a ten-point lead, 61-51.

The veterans seal the bronze

In the final quarter, Spain did not allow another comeback. María Conde and Maite Cazorla took on responsibilities, and two consecutive three-pointers pushed the lead back to 16 points. The Spanish team ultimately broke the game open and went ahead by more than 20 points with a score of 72-51.

Germany attempted one last rally, but there was no turning back. Cazorla resurfaced from the perimeter to halt any attempts at a comeback, and Spain was able to face the final minutes with the confidence of having the medal nearly secured.

The final score of 81-58 confirmed a victory that means much more than a third place. Spain is once again among the three best teams in the world, having competed head-to-head with the favorites throughout the tournament.

The bronze also represents the generational change of a team that combines the experience of players like Alba Torrens, María Conde, or Maite Cazorla with the talent of a generation that is already demanding the spotlight. Iyana Martín has been one of the standout names of the tournament, while Awa Fam, Elena Buenavida, Alicia Flórez, and other young talents have shown that the future of Spanish basketball is secure.

For Torrens, moreover, this World Cup held special significance. The veteran has served as a role model within a group returning to a World Cup after missing the 2022 edition in Australia. Her experience has acted as a bridge between different generations.

Spain leaves Berlin with the bronze and with the feeling of having taken a step forward. The team returns to the world podium eight years later with a generation that has already proven it can compete for medals and is aiming for even greater goals.

This is an automatic translation. You can read the original news, España recupera su sitio entre las grandes y conquista el bronce mundial