The 2002 FIBA World Championship was an international basketball tournament held in the United States from August 29 to September 8, 2002. It featured 16 national teams competing for the title, with games played in various cities, including Indianapolis and New Orleans. Spain won the championship, defeating Argentina in the final match. This victory marked Spain's first gold medal in a major international basketball competition. The tournament showcased emerging talents and highlighted the growing competitiveness of basketball worldwide.