Team Serbia racked a decisive victory against the Czech Republic (82:60). After a tense 48 hours, and the hamstring injury of captain Bogdan Bogdanović, the Serbian squad stepped on the court refreshed and ready for new challenges with Stefan Jović as interim captain.
Wearing white, the Serbs were quick to impose their pace within the first five minutes, and set the tone for the remainder of the game. It was clear the only uncertainty would be the final score in favor of Serbia.
Leading tonight‘s victory were Aleksa Avramović (14p) and Filip Petrušev (13p). Taking a small break from his standard double-doubles, Nikola Jokić (6p, 4a) continues to stack incredible performances. He was all about the highlight-worthy assists and point creations against the Czechs.
Vasilije Micić was fully focused tonight. Unfortunately, he had to step away as a result of a blow to the ribs. Micić was holding his left side, as he walked out, followed in applause: “I guess it’s fine. I got hit in the ribs, it’s a bit sore… We’ll see, but I think I’ll be okay.”, said Micić briefly.
Coach Pešić was in a very good mood tonight, also confirming the 31 year-old will be fit to play during the post-match press conference: “He is fine. We need better control in rebounds… When it comes to the game against Turkey, it’s a big match. (…) This is the best squad Turkey has ever had. They have a complete roster and they are a serious medal contender. Now, which medal, that will be seen”.
Pešić: “We know where we come from. The team is above all”
On further ambitions for the Eurobasket: “We know where we come from. This is us. The ambitions don’t change, with or without Bogdan, they remain the same. Every match that follows is the most important one. We now turn towards Turkey, and we will see what happens. Great expectations aren’t always the best, which is what I say not only to you, the media, but to my players as well. The best is not to have great expectations, and we don’t. Our expectations are in seeing the ways in which we can improve – ourselves and the entire team.”
Speakin of Bogdanović:“Regarding Bogdan, every farewell is difficult and I’m sorry he finished the Eurobasket this way… This is sport. This happens. We know Bogdan is behind us, supporting the team, and we would love to see him here again. It depends on his recovery in LA.”, said Pešić.
All in all, a very satisfactory night for everyone that roots for Serbia, as they wait for their next opponent – Turkey while keeping a 4/4 score in Group A. This is set to be a non-contested derby of the Eurobasket thus far.
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