By Aris Barkas/ barkas@eurohoops.net
MANILA, Philippines – Enjoying a comfortable lead for large chunks of the second half, Montenegro went on to defeat Mexico, 91-71, in Mall of Asia Arena Friday.
Nikola Vucevic poured in 15 of his 27 points in the first half to set the national team of his country in the driver’s seat. The nine-point individual showing in the fourth quarter sealed the deal. His efforts added ten rebounds, two blocks, one assist, and one steal over 30 minutes in the opener of Group D of the 2023 FIBA World Cup.
Besides the impressive double-double posted by the Chicago Bulls center, Kendrick Perry put in 16 points to go with a game-high seven assists. Nikola Ivanovic tallied 14 more points.
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Montenegro, coached by Bosko Radovic, launching the second World Cup campaign in team history with a win can go a long way in advancing to the next round and ranking at least 16th. A potential huge improvement compared to ranking 25th in 2019, in the first appearance in FIBA’s flagship event.
Following a few sporadic leads in the first half, Mexico, coached by Omar Quintero, was forced into catchup mode most of the way. With separation growing to 16 points in the third quarter, the late comeback bid instead resulted in a 20-point deficit down the stretch. Pako Cruz registered a team-high 16 points in the losing effort.
The second game of Group D features Lithuania and Egypt later today in Pasay, Philippines. In Gameday 2 on Sunday, Montenegro will take on Egypt and Mexico will attempt to stun Lithuania.
Photo Credit: FIBA.BASKETBALL