In the extremely anticipated European conflict for group dominance, the competition persevered for 40 minutes; however, Coach Kazys Maksvytis’ squad efficiently restricted Montenegro to a mere 23 factors throughout the latter half.
This final result led to a convincing 91-71 triumph for Lithuania, enabling them to seize the coveted pinnacle of Group D.
As Lithuania advances with an impeccable 3-0 report into the Second Round, they’re now ready to face formidable opponents such because the United States and the triumphant aspect from the Greece versus New Zealand matchup.
Meanwhile, Montenegro progresses as effectively, albeit with a 2-1 report, showcasing their potential to contend within the subsequent levels of the event.
“They made it very tough for us tonight,” Nikola Vucevic stated. “Their aggressiveness, physicality got us out of our stuff a little bit. It led to a lot of our misses, we didn’t respond to it, we rushed to some decisions.
“I’m proud we fought until the end, but when you shoot like this you’re not gonna have a lot of chance.”
Watch the sport highlights between Montenegro and Lithuania within the First Round of the FIBA Basketball World Cup 2023:
