POSTED BY: Eurobasket News
Lauri Markkanen
Finland - Venezuela 90-75
Finland wrapped up their 2023 World Cup campaign on a winning note. They knocked down Venezuela to finish at 2-3 record in Group O. Lauri Markkanen (216-F/C-1997, college: Arizona) orchestrated the victory with 32 points and 9 rebounds.
Venezuela grabbed a 17-13 lead after the opening frame. But Finland picked up the tempo in the second quarter. They unloaded 35 points to surge ahead for a 48-35 halftime lead. Venezuela stayed in the game as they narrowed the deficit at 5-point mark heading into the fourth period. But Finland used a 23-13 rally in the final frame to seal the victory. Sasu Salin (190-SG-1991) and Elias Valtonen (200-SF-1999, college: Arizona St., agency: Blacktop Management) produced 11 points each for Finland. Pedro Chourio answered with 17 points for Venezuela. Jose Materan (196-G/F-1996) had 14 points in the loss.
Tags : LAURI MARKKANEN, WORLD CUP BASKETBALL, FINNISH NATIONAL TEAM