In the highly anticipated European clash for group dominance, the contest persisted for 40 minutes; nevertheless, Coach Kazys Maksvytis’ squad successfully restricted Montenegro to a mere 23 points during the latter half.
This outcome led to a resounding 91-71 triumph for Lithuania, enabling them to seize the coveted pinnacle of Group D.
As Lithuania advances with an impeccable 3-0 record into the Second Round, they are now prepared to face formidable opponents such as the United States and the triumphant side from the Greece versus New Zealand matchup.
Meanwhile, Montenegro progresses as well, albeit with a 2-1 record, showcasing their potential to contend in the subsequent stages of the tournament.
“They made it very tough for us tonight,” Nikola Vucevic said. “Their aggressiveness, physicality got us out of our stuff a little bit. It led to a lot of our misses, we didn’t respond to it, we rushed to some decisions.
“I’m proud we fought until the end, but when you shoot like this you’re not gonna have a lot of chance.”
Watch the game highlights between Montenegro and Lithuania in the First Round of the FIBA Basketball World Cup 2023:
