Irache Erupts with 39-Point Masterclass to Electrify Boys’ U19 Worlds Opener…Read More…
In a breathtaking display of athleticism, composure, and raw talent, Spain’s rising basketball sensation, Alejandro Irache, lit up the opening night of the FIBA Boys’ Under-19 World Cup with a staggering 39-point performance that left fans in awe and opponents scrambling for answers. His heroic effort not only powered Spain to a dramatic 89-83 victory over a relentless Argentina squad but also cemented his name as the player to watch in this year’s highly competitive tournament.
Held at the Aleksandar Nikolić Hall in Belgrade, Serbia, the atmosphere was already buzzing with anticipation as the tournament tipped off. But few could have predicted the fireworks that Irache would provide. From the opening whistle, the 18-year-old shooting guard was locked in, draining contested jumpers, slashing to the rim with ferocity, and knocking down long-range bombs with an almost surreal confidence. By the time the final buzzer sounded, he had etched his name into FIBA lore with one of the highest-scoring individual performances in recent U19 memory.
A Star is Born
Irache’s stat line was jaw-dropping: 39 points on 14-of-21 shooting, including 5-of-8 from beyond the arc, 6 rebounds, 3 assists, and 2 steals in 35 minutes of action. But beyond the numbers, it was the timing and impact of his scoring bursts that made the difference. With Spain trailing 73-70 midway through the fourth quarter, Irache went on a personal 9-0 run—drilling a pair of triples and completing a fast-break and-one layup—that flipped the game on its head.
“It felt like the basket was the size of a swimming pool,” Irache said postgame, flashing a humble smile. “But honestly, I was just focused on getting the win. The team trusted me, and I didn’t want to let them down.”
His humility is admirable, but the world saw something much bigger: the emergence of a future global star.
Argentina Pushes Back
While Irache was the undisputed standout, credit must be given to Argentina for their unyielding spirit. Led by guard Tomás Rocamora and center Santiago Valdéz, the South Americans gave Spain everything they could handle. Rocamora’s 24 points and crafty playmaking kept Argentina within striking distance, while Valdéz added 16 points and 11 rebounds, battling in the paint against Spain’s larger frontcourt.
They even held a 7-point lead at halftime, after a flurry of defensive stops and transition buckets. But the second half belonged to Irache and Spain’s uptempo offense, which began to find its rhythm late in the third quarter.
“We knew Irache was dangerous,” said Argentina head coach Pablo Corral. “But you can watch all the tape in the world—when a player gets that hot, it’s almost impossible to stop. Hats off to him.”
Spain’s Supporting Cast Steps Up
While Irache grabbed the spotlight, he didn’t do it alone. Forward Hugo Martínez added 12 points and 7 rebounds, providing energy and grit on both ends. Point guard Dani Ramírez chipped in 9 points and 6 assists, including a clutch alley-oop to Irache that brought the crowd to its feet late in the fourth.
Coach Javier Rodríguez praised the team effort. “Alejandro had a magical night, no doubt. But I’m equally proud of the way the rest of the team responded—fighting for every loose ball, sticking to our system, and showing resilience.”
Global Reactions Pour In
Irache’s performance lit up social media across the basketball world. Former NBA stars, FIBA legends, and current European league players were quick to offer praise.
“WHO IS THIS KID??!! 39 in your debut? Crazy talent,” tweeted Ricky Rubio, Spain’s Olympic silver medalist and former NBA standout.
American basketball scout Brian Holloway posted, “Alejandro Irache is a top-five NBA Draft pick in the making. Book it.”
Even Slovenia’s Luka Dončić chimed in with a simple tweet: “🔥🔥🔥 Irache.”
What’s Next for Irache and Spain?
Spain’s next group stage matchup is against the Philippines, a fast-paced squad known for their perimeter shooting and tenacity. After Irache’s explosion, defenses will surely adjust—but that might only open opportunities for Spain’s deeper roster to shine.
“We’re just getting started,” said Coach Rodríguez. “We have our eyes on the title. But one game at a time.”
Irache echoed the sentiment: “Tonight was special, but the job’s not finished. I want gold. We want gold.”
The Big Picture
The U19 World Cup is known for being a launching pad for basketball’s next global icons. Past tournaments have showcased names like Stephen Curry, RJ Barrett, and Luka Dončić before they became household names.
If Alejandro Irache’s debut is any indication, the basketball world just met its next superstar.
And the scariest part?
He’s only getting started.
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