Deaflympics Women’s and Men’s 5-8 Classification Games Recap

	1	2	3	4	F
Greece	18	11	7	18	54
Poland	17	15	11	1	46

Tokyo, Japan – Greece Women’s team delivered a composed and efficient performance to secure the victory over Poland in the 5–8 placement game. Greece controlled the tempo early and maintained stability throughout the match, relying on strong interior scoring and solid defensive effort. Their balanced offense and collective rebounding presence helped them build momentum in key stretches, especially in the second half.

The top performer for Greece was Alexandra Kotsiafti, who led all scorers with 20 points, shooting 8-of-15 from the field while also pulling down 9 rebounds. She consistently attacked the basket and served as the anchor of Greece’s offense. Lamprini Agagiotou added important scoring off the bench with 13 points on 5-of-8 shooting, including three three-pointers. Stefania Patera also played a key all-around role, finishing with 7 assists and 5 rebounds, helping to organize the offense and create opportunities for her teammates.

Poland fought hard and matched Greece on the glass, finishing with 42 total rebounds, including a strong 20 offensive rebounds that kept them competitive throughout the game. Their best performer was Julia Wojtysiak with 14 points, 5 rebounds, and solid free-throw shooting. Agata Krygowska contributed 12 points, 7 assists, and steady playmaking while handling much of Poland’s offensive responsibilities. Off the bench, Dominika Bigaj provided a big boost with 11 rebounds and 6 points, giving Poland valuable second-chance opportunities.

Despite Poland’s pressure and aggressive rebounding, Greece’s efficiency, depth, and better execution in transition made the difference. Greece’s bench outscored Poland’s 19–6, and their ability to convert key scoring runs allowed them to maintain control and secure the win in the battle for the 5–8 positions.

	1	2	3	4	F
Australia	9	18	11	14	52
Lithuania	17	14	26	15	72

Lithuania Women’s team delivered a strong and efficient performance to defeat Australia in the 5–8 placement game, using disciplined ball movement and key scoring runs to control the matchup. Lithuania established their rhythm early and maintained a steady lead, combining perimeter shooting with solid interior play. Their defensive pressure also forced turnovers that led to valuable transition points.

Lithuania’s top performer was Ramune Eskertaite, who scored 23 points on 8-of-19 shooting, including six made three-pointers. She was the main offensive engine throughout the game. Team captain Grazina Jocyte contributed 14 points, 6 rebounds, and 4 assists while showing strong leadership on both ends of the floor. Jurgita Segzdaite added an important spark with 12 points and 8 assists, while Gabriele Valaityte controlled the paint with 10 rebounds.

Australia battled hard and showed resilience, especially through their rebounding effort with 56 total boards. Ella Thornton-Elliott led Australia with 15 points, 6 rebounds, and 3 steals, while Lucy Christodoulou produced a strong inside game with 12 points and 9 rebounds. Ava Hough added 10 points and 9 rebounds, helping keep Australia competitive despite offensive struggles. Ashleigh Bransden provided solid minutes off the bench with 6 points and 4 rebounds.

Although Australia showed determination and energy on the glass, Lithuania’s better shooting efficiency, deeper bench production, and ability to score off turnovers proved to be the difference. Lithuania’s control of momentum and stronger offensive execution allowed them to secure the win and advance in the 5–8 ranking battle.

Greece will play against Lithuania for 5th place on 24 November at 15:30, and Poland will play against Australia for 7th place on 24 November at 10:30.

	1	2	3	4	F
Australia	19	15	22	18	74
Venezuela	20	28	15	21	84

Venezuela Men’s team claimed a strong win over Australia with an impressive offensive display and excellent ball control, especially in transition. They used fast-break attacks, strong drives, and timely outside shooting to build momentum throughout the game. Their defensive pressure created turnovers, which they quickly converted into points, helping them maintain control in key stretches.

Gregori Borges was Venezuela’s standout performer with 20 points on 8-of-15 shooting, combining efficient finishing at the rim with confident mid-range scoring. Rodrigo Rios provided an important lift off the bench with 15 points, while captain Felix Perdomo showed all-around leadership with 8 points, 12 rebounds, 9 assists, and 5 steals—one of the most complete performances of the game. Andrew Jimenez added 13 points and strong shooting, and Diego Cova contributed solid bench production with 9 points and 3 steals.

Australia showed strong offensive moments and fought hard to stay competitive. Lachlan Jackson led the team with an outstanding double-double of 21 points and 23 rebounds, controlling the boards and keeping Australia in the game. Tyler Ferres added 17 points, including key drives and perimeter shooting, while Joseph Morosini contributed 13 points off the bench. Samuel Cartledge also provided an efficient spark with 12 points on 6-of-10 shooting.

Despite Australia’s strong interior scoring and rebounding advantage, Venezuela’s speed, transition scoring, and bench production ultimately made the difference. Their ability to force turnovers and convert them into fast-break points allowed them to take control in the second half and secure the victory.

	1	2	3	4	F
Lithuania	18	6	18	17	59
Poland	8	11	19	17	55

Lithuania Men’s team earned a solid win over Poland with a balanced team effort and strong execution on both ends of the floor. Lithuania maintained control through consistent ball movement, steady shooting, and timely defensive pressure. Their ability to convert fast-break opportunities and generate scoring runs helped them establish momentum throughout the game. Despite some cold stretches from the perimeter, their interior finishing and second-unit scoring proved important.

Benas Simanauskas led Lithuania with 15 points, 7 rebounds, and 7 assists, showing excellent leadership and versatility. Zukas Gediminas also had a standout performance with 15 points, 5 assists, and perfect free-throw shooting. Deivis Gindrunas contributed 10 rebounds and provided strong defensive presence, while the Lithuanian bench added 26 points, giving the team the depth they needed to stay in control.

Poland showed strong effort and energy, especially on the boards with 50 total rebounds. Pawel Wisniewski was the top scorer for Poland with 24 points and 12 rebounds, keeping his team competitive with aggressive drives and consistent free-throw shooting. Captain Jakub Wudarczyk added 7 rebounds and 5 assists, while Mikolaj Lewandowicz contributed 8 points and solid defensive pressure. However, Poland struggled with shooting efficiency and turnovers, which allowed Lithuania to maintain the advantage.

In the end, Lithuania’s better ball movement, bench production, and transition scoring made the difference. Their ability to capitalize on Poland’s mistakes and control the rhythm of the game secured the victory in the 5–8 classification round.

Venezuela will play against Lithuania for 5th place at 18:00 on 24 November, and Australia will play against Poland for 7th place at 13:00 on 24 November.

All Japan Standard Time