By Stathis Trapezanlidis/ info@eurohoops.net
Getting the gold is the final goal in every World Cup. However sometimes winning the final is an epic fight until the end with more than one memorable moments. Eurohoops is taking a stroll down the memory lane in some unforgettable games.
1. Yugoslavia – Soviet Union from 82-81 overtime, 1978 Philippines
Yugoslavia with Kresimir Cosic, Drazen Dalipagic and Dragan Kicanovic in its roster would win for third time in its history the World Cup against the Soviets. Drazen Dalipagic was the MVP of the tournament having an average 20 points per game.
2. Soviet Union – USA 95-94 1982, Colombia
It was a “cold war” era final. Soviet Union played for the third consecutive time for the gold, this time against USA. The Soviets won their third world title. Vladimir Tkachenko and Anatoli Myshkin had a great tournament, while current Los Angeles Clippers coach Doc Rivers was the MVP despite the fact that his team was defeated in final.
3. USA – Soviet Union 87-85 1986, Spain
USA got its revenge for their defeat by beating the Soviets in Madrid’s final (87-85). The “admiral” David Robinson was one of the best players of this tournament, while Croatian Drazen Petrovic was the MVP.
4. Serbia – Russia 64-62 1998, Greece
One more final full with memories from the time of the Yugoslavia and Soviet Union dominance. Their basketball “heirs” clashed, Serbia won the World Cup beating Russia 64-62 in final. Dejan Bodiroga was the MVP of the tournament.
5. Serbia – Argentina 84-77 in overtime 2002, Indianapolis
Serbia won for the second consecutive time the trophy, this time against Argentina, which was beaten by 84-77 in a thrilling final. The calls of the game are still disputed by the Argentinians who are in many cases right about their objections. Predrag Stojakovic led Serbia to the final, Dejan Bodiroga was the man of the big game, while Dirk Nowitzki was the MVP of the tournament.