Turkish men's basketball team crowned champions at med games

Beating Serbia in the final game with a score of 62-79, the Turkish men's basketball team achieved the champions' title at the 17th Mediterranean Games taking place in the southern province of Mersin at Servet Tazegul Sports Arena on June 25. The Turkish Youth and Sports Minister Suat Kilic presented the sportsmen their gold medals, with a glowing welcome by the tribunes. Turkey was the frontrunner in the game overall, completing the first period three points ahead of Serbia (18-21) and entering the second half of the game with 28-45. Serbia, however, got off to a good start in the second half but the Turkish side soon showed its competence in the defense. Entering the last period with a 15-point difference at 47-62, the Turkish side has managed to complete the game preserving their lead. Cemal Nalga with 14 scores, Baris Ermis with 13 and Oguz Savas played key roles in Turkey's triumph. Meanwhile, Mediterranean Games Executive Committee member Mustapha Zekri presented the silver medals to the Serbian sportsmen. Serbia had reached the finals after a 94-49 win over Macedonia while Turkey had overcome Tunisia 77-69 in the semifinals.