By Cesare Milanti/ info@eurohoops.net
Manila, Philippines – Serbia center Nikola Milutinov took his share of the blame for his national team’s loss to Germany in the 2023 FIBA World Cup Final.
“I had to play better. I take full responsibility,” Milutinov said. “I wasn’t on the level I was playing in this tournament. I’m feeling terrible right now. But, still, I’ proud of my guys for being in this position and for taking the silver medal because it’s a really big thing.”
Milutinov began the game with four assists in five minutes but didn’t manage to overcome Germany’s defense in the long run. The Olympiacos Piraeus center finished with two points and 0-4 shots along with four rebounds after posting 16 points and 10 rebounds in the semifinal win over Canada.
He overall averaged 12.1 points, 8.4 rebounds and 2.3 assists in the tournament and won his first medal with the senior national team.
“It’s a big thing being second in the world, especially with the team we came here. Still, it’s difficult to lose in the Final.”