By Eurohoops team/ info@eurohoops.net
Despite a close final score (92-89), Israel kept things in control and beat Belgium, sealing qualification for the Eurobasket Round of 16.
As Deni Avdija said after scoring 22 points: “We controlled most of the game; the fourth quarter got us a bit on our toes, but in general, the job is done”.
However, Avdija also added: “We have one more very important game, so we want to go all the way, play our game. I am very happy, but eyes are forward”. The star of the Israeli team is obviously referring to the last game of Group D, with Israel facing Slovenia, an important game for the match-ups of the Round of 16.
Asked directly about the upcoming duel with Doncic, Avdija didn’t flinch: “I think he is a very good player, very talented. Slovenia depends on him, and he is the main focal point. We have a very good game plan and a very good coach to prepare us. I played against him many times, and it’s not going to be any different this time. We are going to be aggressive as a team and try to get the win”.
Portland’s forward was also asked if he is going to give any advice to the coaching stuff about Doncic, since he has faced him many times in the NBA: “I am going to give advice behind closed doors, because I don’t want to give away any secrets. He is a very good player, he is very versatile, and it’s not easy to stop him, but I believe in our guys”.
Coach Ariel Beit-Halahmy, who led the generation of Avdija to the U18 Eurobasket title, added: “In Hebrew, we say, play close on defense and open on offense. This is the way we are going to win”.
Photo credit: FIBA