Romania's hero Cate snatches up MVP award to headline All-Star Five

ORADEA (FIBA U20 European Championship 2017, Division B) - Emanuel Cate picked up the Most Valuable Player award at the FIBA U20 European Championship 2017, Division B after guiding Romania to their first-ever gold and promotion to Division A in this age category.

The 19-year-old power forward got the tournament hosts over the edge against Croatia in the Final with his sixth consecutive double-double performance, scoring 20 points and grabbing 14 rebounds as Romania triumphed 87-80 in the gold-medal game.

Cate was one of the most consistent players, averaging 15.7 points, 12.7 rebounds, 2.5 assists, 2.5 blocks and 1.5 steals per game, good for an average efficiency ranking of 25.2.

Having played a large role in Romania's historic first-place finish, small forward Nandor Kuti also earned a place in the All-Star Five next to his teammate Cate.

Roko Badzim of Croatia and Akwasi Yeboah of Great Britain were also recognized for their individual input in helping their respective sides earn promotion to Division A, with Belgium big man Tim Lambrecht rounding out the five standout performers of the tournament.

FIBA