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FIBA World Cup: Breaking Down Every Group’s MVP

By Maxwell Ogden

Pau Gasol and host Spain were dominant in group play and are favored to come out of the top half of the elimination round bracket in Madrid. (FIBA photo)
Pau Gasol and host Spain were dominant in group play and are favored to come out of the top half of the elimination round bracket in Madrid. (FIBA photo) /
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Group B: Gorgui Dieng, Senegal

Position: Center

Age: 24

World Cup Averages: 22.8 EFF, 38.2 MPG, 18.4 PPG, 11.4 RPG, 2.0 APG, 2.0 SPG, 1.8 BPG

This was a tough one.

Luis Scola has led a short-handed but talented Argentina squad onto the next round by being a clutch playmaker. He’s scoring at will and, even in defeat, outplaying everyone on the court.

Gorgui Dieng has been the pleasant surprise of the tournament thus far. He led Senegal to an unexpected elimination stage appearance and has taken over games on both sides of the floor.

Due to the unforeseen nature of Dieng and Senegal’s collective success, it’s the Minnesota Timberwolves big man who gets the nod.

Dieng currently leads all player with an efficiency rating of 22.8. He’s also No. 2 in rebounds, No. 5 in blocks and No. 9 in steals per game.

Those averages come out to 18.4 points, 11.4 rebounds, 2.0 assists, 2.0 steals and 1.8 blocks per contest.

The most impressive feat that Dieng has achieved is leading Senegal out of group play. Some games have been lopsided, but upsets of Croatia and Puerto Rico are highlights of the tournament.

Dieng is primed and ready for a breakout 2014-15 NBA season.