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USA Today Sports Media Group
USA Today Sports Media Group
Sport
Clemente Almanza

2023 FIBA World Cup: Latvia’s run comes to an end with 81-79 loss to Germany

Davis Bertans Latvia Germany World Cup FIBA World Cup Basketball Thunder

Scrambling to get a shot off with mere seconds left, Davis Bertans managed to grab the defensive rebound and pushed the pace to shoot a deep right-wing 3-pointer as time expired.

The ball hit the rim and missed. Just like that, Latvia’s Cinderella run came to an end with an 81-79 loss to Germany in the 2023 FIBA World Cup quarterfinals.

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In the back-and-fourth contest, neither team led by more than 14 points. Germany held a 36-34 halftime lead and a 62-59 lead after three quarters.

With less than three minutes to go, it looked as if Latvia’s magic had finally ran out as Germany built a double-digit lead. Instead, Latvia had one final push left. It almost erased a 10-point deficit with 2:24 remaining, closing the game on a 10-2 run.

Despite the heartbreaking loss, Bertans was excellent for Latvia. In 34 minutes, he had 20 points on 6-of-14 shooting and two rebounds. He went 6-of-13 from 3 to lead Latvia’s offense.

Bertans previewed the type of performance he’d have in an elimination game with three quick 3-pointers to start the game. The 30-year-old showed off his range with several deep 3-point attempts.

Alas, Bertans’ most important shot attempt was a bit too strong as he missed the chance to hit a game-winner. He immediately sulked following the buzzer but Latvia’s run was impressive in itself and should be a point of pride for him.

Let’s look at instant reactions and highlights from Latvia’s two-point loss.

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