ISTANBUL, (Reuters) – The United States won their first world championship title in 16 years after beating hosts Turkey 81-64 in the final thanks to a majestic performance by 21-year-old forward Kevin Durant.
Durant has been the tournament’s outstanding player and he lit up yesterday’s showdown in the Sinan Erdem Dome with 28 points and five rebounds, having nailed seven three-pointers against a battling Turkish defence.
Coming off only his third professional season in the NBA with Oklahoma Thunder, Durant scored seamlessly past his markers from a wide range of positions.
Although outclassed by the tournament favourites, the Turks still had plenty to cheer about and got a standing ovation from the passionate home fans for securing a maiden podium finish in their third world championship appearance.
Turkey turned a 14-7 deficit into a 17-14 lead early on but ran out of steam against a more talented and athletic U.S. team.
The Americans led 42-32 at halftime on the back of 20 points from Durant and his Oklahoma team mate Russel Westbrook provided excellent support in set plays, finishing the game with 13 points, six rebounds and three assists.
Los Angeles Lakers centre Lamar Odom also shone with 15 points and 11 rebounds for the winners and Phoenix Suns guard Hidayet Turkoglu led Turkey with 16 points and seven rebounds.
