4th U21 World Championship

Rising Stars Shine at the 4th U21 World Championships in Buenos Aires

From July 17 to 27, 2024, Buenos Aires, Argentina, played host to some of the most promising young talent in basketball at the 4th U21 World Championships. With teams from across the globe, the tournament delivered thrilling matchups, breakout performances, and a glimpse at the future of the sport.

United States Clinches Gold in a Historic Final

The United States claimed the gold medal with a commanding 81–72 victory over an impressive newcomer, the Dominican Republic. It was a hard-fought contest, but the U.S. team’s depth and composure under pressure proved decisive.

The Dominican Republic, competing in its first U21 World Championship final, took home a well-deserved silver medal and won admiration for its fast-paced and fearless play. Meanwhile, Ukraine secured bronze by defeating Lithuania 59–46 in a strong defensive showing.

Individual Brilliance Lights Up the Tournament

Several young stars made their mark during the championship. Among them, Luisaury Pena of the Dominican Republic led all scorers with a phenomenal 202 points, earning the Best Scorer Award. Argentina’s own Lautaro Dominguez was honored as the Youngest Player in the tournament, signaling a bright future for the host nation.

Top Five Players & MVP Announced

The tournament’s Best Five Players included:

• Benas Simanauskas (Lithuania)

• Danylo Bychkovyi (Ukraine)

• Luisaury Pena (Dominican Republic)

• Nowel Cueves (Dominican Republic)

• Pawel Wisniewski (Poland)

  
  

At the center of the spotlight was Keanu Boren from the United States, who earned the prestigious MVP Award for his leadership, clutch performances, and all-around excellence.

Fair Play and Sportsmanship

In addition to their gold medal, the United States was also recognized with the Fair Play Team Award, showcasing their commitment to integrity and respect on and off the court.

Looking Ahead

With new contenders rising and young talent making global headlines, the U21 World Championships are proving to be a vital platform for future basketball stars. As we close the chapter on a memorable 2024 edition, anticipation is already building for the 5th U21 World Championships—where the next generation will once again take center stage.