By Cesare Milanti / info@eurohoops.net
MANILA, Philippines – Just like what was done by the Dominican Republic, Serbia dismantled its opponents in Group B of the 2023 FIBA World Cup in Manila.
After having the huge upper hand over China (105-63) and Puerto Rico (94-77), they also dismantled South Sudan 115-83 completing a perfect 3-0 so far.
Bogdan Bogdanovic went very close to a double-double with 23 points and nine assists while shooting 6/9 from beyond the arc. “The result doesn’t say that, but it was a very physical and demanding game for us. I’m happy and proud we won, we showed the character at the end. But the tournament has just started”, he said in the post-game press conference.
Nikola Jovic followed with an amazing shooting percentage: perfect from the field (9/9), and the 20-year-old scored 25 points. “If you are alone, take the shot: don’t hesitate. That’s what I told him. He’s a very talented guy, the most important is that he has the support of his teammates. They believe in him”, coach Svetislav Pesic talked about what he told Jovic before the game.
Other notable performances came from the genius creation of Stevan Jovic, who ended the encounter with 12 assists, and from the newest Olympiacos center Nikola Milutinov, finishing the winning clash with 17 points, nine rebounds, and 8/10 from the field, making no enemies on the glass.
Moving on to South Sudan, who will most likely play against Angola and the Philippines now to keep fighting for a spot at next year’s FIBA Olympic Tournament, this was Dut Kacuol’s day, as he ended with 21 points and 6/9 from the arc. Nuni Omot added 17 points and five rebounds.
“We ran into a well-oiled machine, they executed, they rarely turned over the ball. I’m proud of my guys, they competed and showed spirit. You win some and you lose some, it happens. For the most part, the worst part was a point from turnovers. They took him out of the game, they put two on the ball. They had a game plan for Carlik Jones, he has been impressive in the first two games. I’ll try to get Carlik in better positions to get him to help the team”, head coach Royal Ivey commented in the post-game press conference.
Following this victory, Serbia remains unbeaten in Group B with a 3-0 record. South Sudan has now a 1-2 record and needs to wait for the game between China and Puerto Rico to discover its fate.
PHOTO CREDIT: 2023 FIBA World Cup
Watch the upcoming World Cup on the official streaming service of FIBA! Join Courtside 1891 and never miss a second of the action!