Puerto Rico established itself as a medal contender in Toronto.
"We think we can use this as a springboard for what lies ahead," Puerto Rico's coach Carlos Morales said. Thursday's gold medal was the first medal of any kind in basketball for the Puerto Ricans, who will arrive in Canada with one of the tournament's most experienced teams. Puerto Rico was fourth in the 1964 Olympics and fourth again at the world championships in 1990.
Morales called Puerto Rico's 69-65 semifinal victory Wednesday over the Russia "the greatest win in the history of Puerto Rico basketball."
He went on to say that Thursday's win was one for the history books. "We'll definitely be partying," he said of the 94-80 triumph over Italy. Despite Puerto Rico's confidence, they will have their work cut out for them at the World Championships in Toronto. The United States Team, including Shaquille O'Neal, Kevin Johnson, and Joe Dumars, is expected to win.
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