This summer, the World University Games, an international multi-sport event similar to the Olympics with only university/college athletes competing has been taking place in Kazan, Russia, and Barry University was represented in this renowned gathering of athletics. Two of Barry men’s basketball players, senior Magne Fivelstad and redshirt sophomore Nico Ostbye, represented their home nation of Norway in the tournament.
With the help of Fivelstad and Ostbye, Norway finished 13th out of 24 teams from around the world. On their way to their top third finish, the Norwegians defeated South Korea, Mongolia, China and Chile.
Fivelstad, Barry’s 2012-13 Male Academic Athlete of the Year, showed exceptional skill with 16 points and four rebounds in Norway’s close 79-77 victory over South Korea to clinch 13th place. The senior also scored 10 points, and grabbed six rebounds in a 106-74 dominance of China.
Ostbye, also displayed prowess on the court, scoring eight points against the USA in a 91-51 defeat, as well as scoring six points in each of Norway’s wins over China and Chile. Norway beat Chile, 62-48.
Norway finished fourth in Pool D behind well-regarded powers Lithuania, Brazil and Finland.