Germany was crowned world basketball champion for the first time in its history after its victory in the final against Serbia (83-77) on Sunday at the Mall of Asia Arena in Manila.

The Mannschaft, bronze medalist in 2002 with their star Dirk Nowitzki, also won their second title after Euro 1993. Led by Dennis Schröder (28 points, including his team's last 5), they made the difference in the third quarter-time (won 22 to 10), at the end of which it led 69 to 57. In this 100% European final, the first since Spain-Greece in 2006, the Germans however had to resist the return of the Serbs until the last minute of the game.

Schröder, on a penetration into the Serbian racket twenty-two seconds from the buzzer then by scoring his two free throws, completed the German success. The next Toronto Raptors point guard was voted best player of the competition.

“A three-year project”

The Mannschaft was also able to count on the 19 points of its winger Franz Wagner, rid of its regular defender Ognjen Dobric from the start of the match (injured in an ankle after two minutes of play).

Germany's world crowning, obtained without losing a single match, even in the group stage, confirms the reconstruction work carried out since post-Nowitzki and extends a successful Euro 2022 at home, with a third place – then Germany's best result since 2005 (Euro final).

In the semi-final, Friday in Manila, the Germans created a sensation by eliminating the United States (113-111), favorites like in every international competition thanks to their battalion of players from the North American professional championship (NBA).

“We are committed to a three-year project. This is the second year. My players take care of each other, fight for each other. This group is special, ”said, before the final, the experienced Canadian coach of Germany, Gordon Herbert, 64 years old.