Puerto Rico U17 vs Lithuania U17

Lithuania's ability to build a double-digit cushion in the third quarter proved decisive. Puerto Rico had shown resilience throughout the tournament — their 101-85 win over Ivory Coast in the round of 16 demonstrated their scoring capacity — but they could not sustain a defensive stand long enough to flip the momentum. Fouling in the final minute to extend the game was a calculated risk that did not pay off, as Lithuania converted enough free throws to keep the margin safe.

Full individual box scores were not available from FIBA at the time of writing, but Lithuania's collective balance was the story. Five different players reached double figures in their 103-89 opening win over Canada, and a similar spread of contributors likely underpinned this victory. Puerto Rico's offensive output of 93 points was their highest in the classification phase, suggesting their attack functioned well even in defeat.

The final score of 98-93 reflects a game that was closer than the classification bracket might suggest. Both teams had conceded 100+ points in their previous two outings — Puerto Rico shipped 149 against the USA — but tightened up for this decider. The combined 191 points was the highest total in any of the 5-8 classification matches, indicating neither defence dominated. Lithuania's 98 points is consistent with their group-stage scoring rate (they averaged 93.5 across their first four games), while Puerto Rico's 93 was their highest score since the 101 they posted against Ivory Coast in the round of 16.

Lithuania finish seventh in the 16-team tournament, a marginal improvement on their classification finish. Puerto Rico end in eighth, their best result coming in the group stage where they won three of four games before the knockout rounds.

The tournament concludes later today (5 July) with the third-place game between Australia and hosts Türkiye, followed by the final between the USA and Serbia at 20:15 CET.

A fittingly competitive end to a difficult week for both sides. Lithuania's experience and depth told over the full 40 minutes, but Puerto Rico's fight in the final quarter suggests a programme trending in the right direction. Neither team will be satisfied with a classification finish, but the margin offered some consolation for the quality on display.