Lithunian hosts take fifth in eurobasket

KAUNAS -- The eurobasket championships have finally come to a close in Lithuania, with Spain again taking home the gold medal while the home team won 5th place.

Spain easily defeated silver-medallists France to retain their place as European champions. Russia took bronze with a exciting defeat of Macedonia, which had narrowly bumped Lithuania in the previous round.

Lithuania went on to defeat Greece in a thrilling match that went down to the last minute.

The newly built Kauno Arena was packed for the match, which saw Lithuania down for most of the first half only to come roaring back in the second to take fifth and push Greece into sixth.

The result means that Lithuania has secured its spot in the 2012 FIBA World Olympic Qualifying Match.

Beyond their relatively strong finish, the tournament was hailed a great success for Lithuania as host nation. The Kauno Arena was newly constructed especially for the event, and finished barely in time to host the games.