The World Cup moves into its final week as the medals race heats up. Eight teams remain in contention for the crown in Spain, with six European squads and two from the Americas still alive. After ten days of play, three nations have emerged as market darlings: Lithuania and Germany, the only two teams still undefeated, and Canada led by Shai Gilgeous-Alexander after a stunning upset of the United States that finished 110-104. The tournament now rests on the shoulders of teams that bring not just talent but durability, grit, and elite defense. The mood around the United States has shifted from certainty to cautious optimism as questions arise about consistency.
Lithuania asserts itself to trail the US by a shelf of games
Lithuania and Serbia face a landmark quarterfinals session, opening Tuesday at 10:45. The Baltic squad previously dismissed as outsiders has climbed steadily through the rounds, and now few would bet against them landing a podium finish. Jonas Valančiūnas, anchored by the New Orleans Hornets this season, leads the team in overall impact with solid scoring and rebounding. Rokas Jokubaitis, at 22, has grown into a playmaking threat with double-figure scoring and significant assists, while the group thrives on a cohesive five-man unit rather than standout individual numbers. After the win over the United States, Valančiūnas emphasized the team’s chemistry over individual stats. Guard play from players like Mikal Brazdeikis and Martynas Močėjūnas has complemented the core, ensuring depth and balance.
During a clash with the Serbian squad, which has faced questions about leadership, the team remains packed with talent including Nikola Jokić, the NBA MVP, who has shown moments of brilliance though his best form has yet to dominate the event. Bogdanović, averaging 18.4 points and 5.4 assists, and Milutinov, contributing 14 points and 9.6 rebounds, have been pivotal in Serbia’s push.
“I hate losing”
Italy and the United States are set to conclude the quarterfinal round on Tuesday at 14:40. The opening defeat of the tournament sharpened focus on the coaching and leadership structures. Steve Kerr has stressed the need to restart with the same intensity shown in the second half of prior games, hoping the setback serves as a lesson in adaptation and resilience. Attitudes and preparation have drawn mixed reviews, with players like Anthony Edwards delivering 35 points in a pivotal performance against Lithuania and Brandon Ingram providing steady scoring. The Italian squad, guided by Gianmarco Pozzecco, has shown growth and battle readiness. Simone Fontecchio, a standout for the Utah Jazz, has emerged as the team’s scoring and rebounding anchor, supported by Melli and Datome.
On Wednesday, a second European duel will pit Germany against Latvia. Germany, bronze medalists at the last European Championship, reached the quarterfinals for the first time since 2006. Dennis Schröder has emerged as a focal scorer and facilitator, supported by Franz and Moritz Wagner and Daniel Theis. Latvia, the breakout team of the tournament, is built on collective effort after the loss of its star Kristaps Porzingis. Roland Smits and Arturs Zagars have stepped up, with Davis Bertans providing outside shooting and experience.
Canada eliminates Spain and ends the title chase early
In a dramatic quarterfinal showdown, Canada and Luka Dončić led a high-intensity duel that showcased two marquee stars, with Shai Gilgeous-Alexander delivering the kind of all-around performance that has many naming him a contender for the event’s MVP. Dončić has been a relentless scorer and playmaker, posting strong averages across points, rebounds, and assists, while Mike Tobey has contributed steady offense and Klemen Prepelic has added scoring bursts to complement the veteran leadership of the Canadian squad. The Canadian team closed out Spain in dramatic fashion, ending the Spanish bid with a late rally anchored by Gilgeous-Alexander, Olynyk, and RJ Barrett, whose flawless execution in crunch time sealed the win.
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