This archive report was first published on 13 September 2019.
On the cusp of history, Argentina are one win away from their first Basketball World Cup title since 1950. The South Americans brushed aside France 80-66 in the semi-finals on Friday, setting up a thrilling final showdown with Spain on Sunday in Beijing.
Earlier, NBA champion Marc Gasol saved Spain as they battled back to see off Australia 95-88 after a second overtime period to reach the decider.
Argentina made a fast start in their semi-final against France, who had ousted the US in the previous round. The South Americans opened the game up with a 10-2 run, with Luis Scola, the age-defying 39-year-old, dominating the court.
With an average height of 6'8" (203 cm), France are one of the tallest teams at the World Cup. However, their height advantage had little effect on Argentina, who were up 52-38 midway through the third quarter and on the way to a big win.
Argentina's Luis Scola finished with 28 points, 13 rebounds, and two assists, earning a huge ovation when he stepped off the court near the end.
