Serbia Hold Off France To Win Title

Serbia held off France 78-72 to be crowned champions of the U18 European Championship Men 2009 in Metz, France.

Serbia last won this tournament two years ago in Madrid, Spain and head coach Vladimir Jovanovic was elated - although at the same time at a loss for words - afterwards.

Ahead Of Final France, Serbia Praise Team Effort

As they prepare ahead of Sunday's final of the U18 European Championship Men 2009 in Metz, France, head coaches Vladimir Jovanovic and Philippe Ory are likely to stress one common thought to their respective teams: "one player doesn't make a team, all 12 players make a team."

France Overcome Valanciunas, Lithuania, Reach Final

France beat Lithuania 68-63 to reach the final of the U18 European Championship Men 2009 in Metz.

The home side led by as many as 13 early in the fourth quarter before Lithuania charged back but Les Bleus did just enough down the stretch to clinch a showdown with Serbia in Sunday's final.

Semi-Finals: What Can Statistics Tell Us

Turkey will take on Serbia before Lithuania go up against hosts France in Saturday's semi-finals at the U18 European Championship Men 2009 in Metz, France.

The first semi-final will see a much-awaited match-up between Enes Kanter and Dejan Musli. Arguably two of the best centres in this competition, they will need to be at the top of their game with a place in the final at stake.