Greece, Czech Republic into last 16 in FIBA World Cup

SHANGHAI – The first round matches of the FIBA World Cup have the last 16 teams finalized on Thursday for the second round.

During the second round, teams advancing from the same group will not play against each other, with the top two teams from each of the further four groups qualifying for the quarterfinals.

NBA MVP Giannis Antetokounmpo, with 24 points and 10 rebounds, inspired Greece to a 103-97 victory over New Zealand in Group F. The hard-fought victory granted Greece a berth in the second round, together with Brazil, who continued the momentum after upsetting Greece on Tuesday to have their third victory at the tournament beating Montenegro 84-73.

The Czech Republic made history progressing to the second round at their first ever FIBA World Cup since their last participation in the then-called World Championship in 1982. The Czechs beat Turkey 91-76 to finish runner-up in Group E behind leaders USA, who trounced Japan 98-45 on Thursday.