Basketball: U.S lose top spot in FIBA rankings’ after 12 years, Spain take over

U.S men’s basketball team have been knocked off the top of the International Basketball Federation (FIBA) world rankings for the first time in over 12 years, with Spain taking over.

Spain, who have enjoyed success in recent years including winning the FIBA Basketball World Cup 2019 and FIBA EuroBasket 2022, lead the November 2022 table ahead of the U.S.

“It’s not exactly a new title and it probably can’t be maintained for too long, but it’s something so unique, prestigious and historic that I feel tremendously proud of everyone who … has contributed to it,” Spain coach Sergio Scariolo tweeted.

Spain top the rankings with 758.6 points followed by the U.S. with 757.5 points. Australia are third on 740.3 points.

The U.S. team had led the rankings since 2010.

Nigeria’s D’Tigers remain 19th on the world rankings with 460.1 points, and number one among African teams.