By Antigoni Zachari / info@eurohoops.net
16 teams on the map wait for their next challenge on Saturday and Sunday respectively. Before we head to the next round, though, let’s reminiscent 12 players who stood out for their teams. Some of them have made it, some have not, yet the bottom line, aka their performances, will be remembered.
Our list includes the most statistically effective players of each position, based on their five-game presence, but also focuses on game-changing players for each team.
Without further ado…
(Photo credit: FIBA.basketball)
Goran Dragic
Slovenia has took its opponents by storm in the group phase and Dragic is the force behind this great success. His leadership and experience has paced the team to 5 convincing wins, even against podium-contenders like France.
Dragic averages 24.4 points and, 5.4 assists and 3.2 rebounds so far and manages to be the statistic leader after 5 games.
Dennis Schroder
Germany had its ups and downs in the group, as Schroder’s contribution has played a key role for the team 5 games in. When he soars, Fleming’s squad has nothing to fear, no matter which opponent comes its way.
The 23-year-old Atlanta Hawks player counts 23.3 points and 4.6 assists per game and it remains to be seen how he will cope with France’s dynamic frontcourt in the Round of 16.
Alexey Shved
28-year-old Shved managed to lead the Russian NT through every single game with his excellence, falling only to Latvia in the first round.
His efficient scoring is one of Russia’s big weapons, while he manages to execute and deliver with ease. Not only that, but he makes sure to create for his teammates, with 23 points and 5.6 assists per game.
Bojan Bogdanovic
Croatia finished second in the group, behind Spain, and this success if partly owed to Bojan’s sharp shooting skills and his steel-like temper through tough moments in the game.
The 28-year-old guard taps 21.4 points and 5 rebounds per game for his team and ranks 6th in the competition’s statistic leaders so far.
Cedi Osman
Basketball fans from across the globe had the chance to watch the Cavaliers’ player matchup with Kristaps Porzingis on Thursday, getting a little taste before the NBA season starts.
Osman has been Turkey’s key player so far and fearlessly led the team in all of its wins in Group D. Despite finishing 4th, the team has good potential behind the player’s 17.6 points, 5.2 rebounds and 4 assists averages.