The FIBA U17 Basketball World Cup continued its high-octane group stage action as Serbia U17 rolled past Lithuania U17 with a commanding 101–78 victory on July 3, 2026. The matchup between two European youth powerhouses was expected to be closely contested, but Serbia’s explosive second-half performance turned the game into a showcase of their offensive depth and defensive tenacity.

First Half: A Battle of Titans

Lithuania U17 started strong, using their trademark size and physicality in the paint to build an early 10-point lead. Center Lukas Petraitis dominated the boards and scored 12 first-quarter points, giving the Lithuanians a 26–20 advantage after the opening period. Serbia responded by pushing the tempo in the second quarter. Guard Marko Jovanovic orchestrated a 12–2 run with his quick handles and accurate passing, cutting the deficit to just four points by halftime (48–44 in favor of Lithuania). The half ended with both teams exchanging baskets, setting the stage for a thrilling second half.

Third Quarter Surge: Serbia Takes Control

The game turned decisively in the third quarter. Serbia’s defense ratcheted up the pressure, forcing Lithuania into nine turnovers in the period. Meanwhile, forward Nikola Milenkovic—who had been quiet in the first half—erupted for 15 points in the third quarter alone, including three three‑pointers. Serbia outscored Lithuania 32–16 in the quarter, turning a four‑point deficit into a 76–64 lead heading into the final period.

The fourth quarter was all about maintaining control. Serbia’s bench contributed 23 points, keeping the foot on the accelerator. Lithuania, exhausted and struggling to find consistent scoring beyond Petraitis, could never mount a serious comeback. Serbia closed the game with a 25–14 fourth quarter, sealing the 101–78 victory.

Top Performers and Stats

• Serbia U17: Nikola Milenkovic led all scorers with 27 points (5‑of‑8 from three) and 6 rebounds. Marko Jovanovic recorded a double-double with 14 points and 11 assists. Center Stefan Djordjevic added 16 points, 9 rebounds, and 3 blocks.
• Lithuania U17: Lukas Petraitis finished with 24 points and 10 rebounds for a strong double-double. Guard Tomas Balčiūnas chipped in 15 points and 5 assists, but Lithuania’s supporting cast shot just 30% from the field.

Game Analysis and Tournament Implications

Serbia’s ability to adjust defensively in the second half was the difference-maker. After Lithuania’s early success in the post, Serbia double‑teamed the entry passes and forced guards to make difficult decisions. Offensively, ball movement was crisp—Serbia recorded 28 assists on 41 made field goals, a testament to their unselfish play. The win improves Serbia U17 to 3–0 in Group C, positioning them as a strong contender for the knockout rounds. Lithuania U17 falls to 1–2, but with two group games remaining, they still have a chance to advance if they can bounce back against weaker opponents.

The FIBA U17 Basketball World Cup, featuring the world’s best young talents, continues to provide exciting glimpses into the future of the sport. Serbia’s dominant performance sends a clear message to the rest of the field: they are playing with confidence, depth, and a hunger for gold.