Croatia hand Canada first loss, reach first Semis since 2009
HERAKLION (2015 FIBA U19 World Championship) - Croatia once again shrugged off injury and absentee issues to book their spot in the Semi-Finals of the 2015 FIBA U19 World Championship with an 84-71 victory
HERAKLION (2015 FIBA U19 World Championship) - Croatia once again shrugged off injury and absentee issues to book their spot in the Semi-Finals of the 2015 FIBA U19 World Championship with an 84-71 victory over Canada. Marko Arapovic, Ivica Zubac and Luka Bozic combined for 59 points, 27 rebounds and eight assists for Croatia, who only had nine players play in the game.
Turning Point: Canada were coming back and trailed 70-66 when Bozic was given a flopping technical foul. Corey Johnson missed the free-throw and missed a three-pointer on the ensuing possession. Justin Jackson grabbed the offensive rebound but also was off target on his shot while Arapovic threw down a dunk. After Mat Neufeld split two free throws, Arapovic slammed home an offensive rebound for a 74-67 lead to decide the game.
Stats Don't Lie: Croatia out-rebounded Canada 46-37 while getting 44 points in the paint compared to 34 for Canada.
Game Hero: Arapovic collected 20 points, 11 rebounds, six assists and two steals - and the power forward also was out there guarding Canada playmaker Justin Jackson.
The Bottom Line: By reaching the Semi-Finals for the first time since 2009, Croatia will get a chance for revenge in the Semi-Finals against Turkey, the team that beat them in the Semi-Finals of the 2014 U18 European Championship.
FIBA