The Croatian basketball team triumphed in Istanbul, defeating Turkey 84-71 in the final of the FIBA Olympic Pre-Qualifying Tournament on Sunday.
This victory means Croatia has booked a place at the 2024 Olympic Qualifying Tournament.
Captain Dario Šarić led Croatia to a significant victory with 22 points and 11 rebounds, supported by Mario Hezonja’s 16 points and Ivica Zubac’s 8 points and 10 rebounds.
For Turkey, Furkan Korkmaz scored 19 points, and Sehmus Hazer added 16.
In a packed Sinan Erdem Arena, Croatia played a smart and precise first half, during which they built a crucial lead. Coach Josip Sesar decided to use only eight players in this game, with Dario Drežnjak spending just 1 minute and 18 seconds on the court in the first half.
The main load was carried by Dario Šarić, Ivica Zubac, Mario Hezonja, Jaleen Smith, Goran Filipović, Borna Kapusta, and Roko Badžim.
Croatia’s marvelous first half saw them go in with a commanding 48-29 lead, hitting 10 of 20 three-point attempts compared to Turkey’s one out of 13.
At the start of the second half, Turkey found their outside shooting touch, making all five of their initial three-point attempts, including three by Furkan Korkmaz. This reduced Croatia’s lead to 57-51 in the 27th minute. However, when Turkey’s three-point barrage subsided, Croatia used several excellent offensive plays to regain a double-digit lead.
With composed play in the final quarter, Croatia never allowed Turkey to get within single digits, ultimately securing a comfortable 13-point victory.
Croatia were undefeated all week and played some great basketball to move a step closer to qualifying for Paris.
Source : Croatiaweek
