The FIBA Basketball World Cup is a stage where legends are made, showcasing incredible athleticism, teamwork, and skill. While scoring often takes the spotlight, the art of passing is equally vital, enabling teams to create opportunities and orchestrate plays.
In this article, we discuss Best Passers at the FIBA World Cup which you will find in detail below.
10. Juan Carlos NAVARRO
Juan Carlos Navarro, renowned for his scoring prowess, also left a mark as a facilitator. Playing for Spain, Navarro’s dynamic offensive play was complemented by his court awareness. Throughout his four World Cup appearances spanning from 2002 to 2014, Navarro tallied 79 assists in 33 games.
His versatility in both scoring and playmaking played a crucial role in Spain’s triumph in 2006, where they clinched the gold medal.
9. Milos TEODOSIC
Milos Teodosic is synonymous with exceptional passing. With a career that extended across international and professional basketball, Teodosic’s flair for creative assists earned him a spot among the best. In his two World Cup appearances in 2010 and 2014, Teodosic amassed 79 assists in just 16 games. His ability to orchestrate plays and make mesmerizing passes became a hallmark of his playing style.
8. Boris Diaw
Boris Diaw, known for his versatility, was not only a skilled scorer but also a gifted passer. Representing France in three World Cups from 2006 to 2014, Diaw’s court vision and passing finesse were on full display. With 80 assists in 24 games, Diaw’s ability to set up his teammates was a key factor in France’s success, including a podium finish in 2014.
7. Marcelo MILANESIO
Marcelo Milanesio, a name etched in the history of international basketball, demonstrated his passing prowess across four World Cups from 1986 to 1998. Regrettably, due to data limitations, only his assists from 1994 onwards are officially recorded. In that year, he showcased his playmaking brilliance, averaging an impressive 6.9 assists per game, leaving a lasting impact on the court.
6. Mantas KALNIETIS
Mantas Kalnietis’s evolution from athleticism to dependable playmaking made him a notable presence in the World Cup. Over three appearances in 2006, 2010, and 2019, Kalnietis gathered 83 assists in 23 games. His transformation into a reliable point guard showcased his dedication to improving his passing skills, contributing to Lithuania’s success on the international stage.
5. Facundo CAMPAZZO
Facundo Campazzo, Argentina’s passing wizard, dazzled spectators with his remarkable assists. In the 2019 World Cup, Campazzo’s mesmerizing deliveries earned him a place among the top playmakers. Accumulating 88 assists in 14 games, his outstanding court vision and playmaking prowess were instrumental in guiding Argentina to the final and securing a silver medal.
4. Marcelino HUERTAS
Marcelino Huertas, a skilled Brazilian point guard, showcased his playmaking excellence in four World Cup appearances from 2006 to 2019. With 95 assists in 23 games, Huertas masterfully orchestrated Brazil’s offense. His ability to create scoring opportunities for his teammates made him a crucial asset on the court.
3. Pepe Sanchez
Pepe Sanchez’s contributions to Argentina’s success were undeniably significant. Playing in three World Cups from 1998 to 2006, Sanchez amassed 95 assists in 23 games. His role in orchestrating Argentina’s offense and distributing the ball showcased his exceptional playmaking abilities, contributing to Argentina’s silver medal in 2002.
2. Pablo PRIGIONI
Pablo Prigioni’s rise to become one of the top passers in World Cup history is a testament to his exceptional skills. Despite debuting in the World Cup later in his career, Prigioni’s impact was profound. With 106 assists in 24 games across three appearances from 2006 to 2014, Prigioni’s court vision and playmaking expertise solidified his place among the best.
1. Ricky RUBIO
At the pinnacle of playmaking excellence stands Ricky Rubio, the leader in assists at the FIBA World Cup. Spanning three appearances in 2010, 2014, and 2019, Rubio’s exceptional court vision led to a remarkable 130 assists in 24 games.
His ability to create scoring opportunities for his teammates while contributing as a scorer himself made him an invaluable asset. Rubio’s playmaking brilliance earned him recognition and accolades, including the MVP title in the 2019 FIBA Basketball World Cup.
Read More: FIBA World Cup Top 10 All-Time Scorers
Wrapping it Up!
Greatness in FIBA Basketball requires athleticism, teamwork, and talent. Playmaking is important, but scoring is more important. This article honors the top 10 FIBA World Cup passers for their vision and ability to lift their teammates. From Juan Carlos Navarro’s variety to Ricky Rubio’s genius, these players have shaped passing and the sport. Their contributions have made them FIBA legends.
