Russia claim European wheelchair basketball title

Russia* overcame a slow start to capture the gold medal at the International Wheelchair Basketball Federation (IWBF) European Championships Division B, which finished on Saturday (23 June) in Charleroi, Belgium.

Their achievement also saw them promoted to the European Championships Division A, which will be held next year.

After losing their first two matches, Russia bounced back to take their final four games, including a 59-49 gold medal triumph over Austria, who will also move up to Division A.

Lithuania topped Bosnia & Herzegovina 81-74 for the bronze medal.

Belgium overpowered Croatia, 67-54, to take fifth place, while a thrilling match decided seventh, as Sweden beat Latvia 53-51.

FINAL STANDINGS

1. Russia

2. Austria

3. Lithuania

4. Bosnia & Herzegovina

5. Belgium

6. Croatia

7. Sweden

8. Latvia

9. Slovenia

*Editor's note: The International Paralympic Committee suspended the Russian Paralympic Committee on 7 August 2016 for its inability to fulfil its IPC membership responsibilities and obligations, in particular its obligation to comply with the IPC Anti-Doping Code and the World Anti-Doping Code (to which it is also a signatory). As a result of the suspension, Russian athletes cannot enter IPC sanctioned events or competitions, including the Paralympic Games. For further information please click here.