Category: FIBA

USA Will Open Basketball World Cup Against New Zealand

The United States will open Basketball World Cup play against New Zealand this summer, with Greece and Jordan also awaiting the Americans in the group stage. And the earliest the U.S. can see France in an Olympic final rematch is the semifinals. FIBA held the World Cup draw in Manila on Saturday, when the 32…


Spain Overtakes USA for No. 1 Spot in FIBA Men’s Rankings

For the first time in 12 years, USA Basketball is not atop the world men’s rankings. FIBA, the sport’s governing body, updated its rankings on Friday—and Spain moved into the top spot, a sliver ahead of the United States. The four-time defending Olympic champion Americans moved into the top spot after winning the FIBA world…


Ugly Scenes at Australia-China Basketball Match After Human Rights Protest

Ugly scenes have erupted at a World Cup basketball qualifier between Australia and China after a Chinese “nationalist” spectator decided to get personal with a human rights protestor. Seven protestors—including student activist Drew Pavlou—waved the Tibetan flag, held signs, and shouted “Free Hong Kong” and  “Hong Kong independence” during the game at John Cain Arena…


Hello, Again: US and Spain to Meet in Olympic Men’s Basketball Quarterfinals

SAITAMA, Japan—The United States and Spain played for Olympic gold in 2008 and 2012, then in the semifinals in 2016. And at the Tokyo Games, the top teams in the FIBA world rankings will meet again—just earlier than has been the norm. The three-time reigning Olympic champion Americans will face reigning World Cup champion Spain…