Germany and Türkiye to Clash for Gold at IWBF Men’s U23 World championship
Germany and Türkiye advance to the gold medal game at the IWBF Men's U23 World Championship.Great Britain and Australia will compete for bronze.">
The IWBF Men’s U23 World Championship is set for a thrilling conclusion as Germany and Türkiye prepare to battle for the gold medal. After a day of intense semi-final action on June 20, 2025, these two teams emerged victorious, setting the stage for a highly anticipated final.Great Britain and Australia will compete for the bronze medal, while other teams have been placed in the 5-8 and 9-12 brackets.
Germany Dominates Australia to Secure Spot in the Final
Did You Know? Wheelchair basketball became a Paralympic sport in 1960, showcasing the incredible athleticism and skill of its players.
Germany secured their place in the final with a decisive 87-40 victory over Australia. The undefeated German team controlled the game from the opening tip, demonstrating superior inside play and shooting an extraordinary 58% from the field.They scored 40 points in the paint, making it challenging for the Australian team to respond.
Julian Lammering delivered an outstanding individual performance, scoring 30 points. Jakob Kroemer contributed 26 points and 12 rebounds. Despite moments of brilliance from Jaylen Brown, who led Australia with 14 points, the Aussies couldn’t match Germany’s size and efficiency.
Türkiye Stuns Great Britain in Semi-Final Upset
In a dramatic semi-final, Türkiye upset previously unbeaten Great Britain with a 57-52 victory. The tense game saw momentum swing back and forth, but Türkiye maintained composure in the final stretch.
Hasan Efeturk was the standout performer for Türkiye, recording a double-double with 23 points and 24 rebounds. Alda Albarak added 13 points and 7 assists. Despite 17 points each from oscar Knight and Joel Clifton, Great Britain’s undefeated streak came to an end.
Classification Games: Italy and USA to Compete for Fifth Place
Pro Tip: Follow the IWBF (International Wheelchair Basketball Federation) for the latest news, scores, and updates on wheelchair basketball events worldwide.
In the classification games, Italy and the USA rebounded from quarter-final losses to earn a spot in the 5th-6th place playoff. Italy defeated Japan 66-41 after a closely contested first quarter, with Alessandro Sbuelz leading the way with 19 points and 14 rebounds. Takuma Taniguchi scored 12 points for Japan.
The USA defeated host nation Brazil 68-38, taking an early lead and maintaining control throughout the game. Colin lancaster dominated with 29 points and 13 rebounds. Japan and brazil will now compete for 7th place on the final day.
Finals Day Schedule
The final day of the championship, June 20, 2025, features the following schedule on Court 1:
| Time | Match | Placement |
|---|---|---|
| 09:00 | Japan vs Brazil | 7th-8th |
| 11:15 | Italy vs USA | 5th-6th |
| 13:30 | Great Britain vs Australia | Bronze Medal Game |
| 15:45 | Germany vs Türkiye | Gold Medal Game |
The Rise of Wheelchair Basketball
Wheelchair basketball has evolved from a rehabilitation activity for veterans after World War II to a globally recognized and competitive sport. The International Wheelchair Basketball Federation (IWBF) governs the sport worldwide, promoting inclusivity and providing opportunities for athletes with disabilities to compete at the highest levels. The sport’s growth is reflected in increased participation in Paralympic Games and other international tournaments, showcasing the dedication and skill of wheelchair basketball players.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What are the rules of wheelchair basketball?
- Wheelchair basketball follows similar rules to able-bodied basketball, with modifications to accommodate the use of wheelchairs. Players must dribble the ball after every two pushes of their wheels, and certain rules address contact and chair maneuvering.
- How are players classified in wheelchair basketball?
- Players are classified based on their functional ability, with a points system ranging from 1.0 to 4.5. Lower scores indicate more significant physical limitations. The total points of players on the court at any time cannot exceed a certain limit, ensuring a balance of abilities.
- What equipment is used in wheelchair basketball?
- Specialized sports wheelchairs are used,designed for agility and stability. These chairs often have angled wheels for better maneuverability and anti-tip devices for safety.
What are your predictions for the gold medal game? Who will take home the title?
Share your thoughts and predictions in the comments below!