Israel hold off Lithuania comeback, Mara stars in opening Spain success

NIS (Serbia) - Defending champions Spain began their quest for a three-peat at the FIBA U18 European Championship 2023 on a Day 1 that also saw hosts Serbia blow past Czech Republic and Israel fend off a late surge by Lithuania.

Stay up to date with the tournament and check out the latest results, group standings and competition system for all the information you need.

Key Storylines

- Spain, Germany, France, Serbia make opening day statements
- Greece overcome Francesco Ferrari's big double-double for Italy
- Israel edge Lithuania in high-scoring thriller

Top Performers

The highest efficiency (31) on opening day came from Italy's Francesco Ferrari after he finished with a 22-point, 12-rebound double-double plus 4 assists and 2 blocks. He also shot 6-of-11 from the field and 10-of-12 from the free-throw line in a five-point defeat to Greece.

Aday Mara led Spain in their 24-point victory over Denmark, as the 2.20m center put up 20 points, 9 rebounds, 4 blocks and 2 assists on 7-of-9 shooting from the field for an efficiency of 29.

Meanwhile, Mantas Juzenas couldn't help Lithuania to a victory on Day 1, but still turned in a strong game with a 20-point, 11-rebound double-double, making 4-of-7 three-pointers on his way to an efficiency of 28.

That was the same efficiency for Emre Tunca, who played a major role in Turkey's comfortable win over Poland with 21 points, 7 rebounds, 5 assists and 3 steals, also converting 9-of-13 shots from the field.

Filip Jovic rounds out the list after he posted 22 points, 4 rebounds, 3 blocks and 2 assists while shooting a perfect 8-of-8 from the field for an efficiency of 26 in only 16 minutes of action.

Results of the Day

Group A

Israel 101-98 Lithuania
Sweden 48-86 France

Group B

Croatia 53-81 Germany
Poland 63-78 Turkey

Group C

Finland 63-78 Slovenia
Czech Republic 56-113 Serbia

Group D

Denmark 64-88 Spain
Greece 88-83 Italy

FIBA