MINSK, 18 June (BelTA) - Belarus stunned reigning champions Spain 53-51 in the FIBA Women's EuroBakset 2021 opener in Group A in Valencia, Spain, BelTA has learned.
Belarus held a five-point advantage at the start of the match but ended the first half edged 21-22. The teams showed an equal play in the second half. A last-gasp score by Alexandria Bentley sealed a victory for Belarus against Spain. Maryia Papova claimed an excellent double-double of 19 points and 13 rebounds for Belarus. Belarus will face Slovakia that lost to Sweden 57-74 in the opener on 18 June. Belarus will play Sweden on 20 June.
In Group B Serbia prevailed Italy 86-81 in the overtime, while Montenegro beat Greece 70-55.
In Group C Bosnia and Herzegovina defeated Belgium 70-55 and Slovenia beat Turkey 72-47.
Group D Russia defeated the Czech Republic 73-69, France routed Croatia 105-63.
The winners of the four quartets will progress to the quarterfinals. Quarterfinals will be held on 23 June, semifinals – 26 June, finals - on 27 June.
