By Eurohoops team/ info@eurohoops.net
Goran Dragic is the go to guy of Slovenia and he proved it once again with 21 points, 7 rebounds and 4 assists in the 90-80 win over Australia. The team of coach Zdovc dictated the tempo of the game from the first quarter and despite a valiant effort from Australia, never lost the lead. From the losing side Aron Baynes with 21 points and 7 rebounds was also great.
Lithuania had a hard start in the tournament against Mexico. The Americans with Cruz being “hot” from the first moment took the lead and finished the 1st quarter leading 27-22. Lithuania reacted, finished the first half with a 45-41 lead, controlled Cruz and Ayon in the second half and increased the margin of the difference quickly. At the end of the third the score was 67-53 and everything seemed to be decided. That was the case. Valanciunas and Motiejunas improved their numbers and finally Lithuania got without pressure the 87-74 win.
In the game between the two weakest teams of Group D, at least on paper, Angola got the 80-69 win over Korea, despite playing with fire. The Africans had a 36-18 lead after the first half, but let 30 points in the third quarter (52-48) and everything seemed possible. However Angola reacted once again with defense and prevailed without any drama. Veteran leader Olimpiο Cipriano with 16 points led all scorers in the game.