Latvia claims fifth place in maiden Fiba World Cup

Latvia celebrates after finishing fifth in the Fiba World Cup.-MARLO CUETO/INQUIRER.net

MANILA, Philippines—Latvia wrapped up its first-ever Fiba World Cup campaign in fifth place.

Guard Arturs Zagars dished out a World Cup record 17 assists with zero turnovers as Latvia cruised past Lithuania, 98-63, on Saturday at Mall of Asia Arena.

Arturs Kurucs led Latvia in scoring with 20 points on 6-of-10 shooting from the three-point area.

Guard Arturs Zagars celebrates with fans after Latvia demolished Lithuania in the battle for fifth place in the Fiba World Cup.-MARLO CUETO/INQUIRER.net

Latvia blew the game wide open with a 28-9 surge in the third quarter for a 30-point lead heading into the final frame.

The Latvians assisted on 34 of their 35 made field goals and only committed three turnovers.

Latvia, which had a magical World Cup run despite missing its NBA star Kristaps Porzingis due to an injury, hardly made any mistakes on both ends of the floor, shutting down Lithuania to just 35 percent from the field while also draining 16 out of its 32 tries from long range.