France turns back Australia, clinches bronze in FIBA World Cup

MANILA, Philippines — France erased a 15-point deficit to beat Australia, 67-59, to settle for third place in the 2019 FIBA World Cup in China on Sunday.

Led by Nando de Colo and Evan Fournier, the French denied Patty Mills and Australia a podium finish in the tournament.

After trailing for three quarters, France was able to complete a comeback and take the lead early in the fourth canto.

Joe Ingles and Mills paced the Boomers in the losing effort.

De Colo scored a game high 19-points while Fournier chipped in 16.

Ingles and Mills combined for 32 points for Australia.